Kids Art Show

Straits of America 250 Celebration

The Mackinaw City Area Arts Council (MCAAC), in partnership with the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum, will host a special youth art show celebrating creativity and community in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.

Local students will have the unique opportunity to showcase their artwork aboard the historic Icebreaker Mackinaw, creating an unforgettable experience for artists and visitors alike. We will accept up to 250 pieces of art for this exhibition.

Theme: Inspired by the Straits, our past, and the promise of tomorrow—a tribute to America’s past, present, and future.

How to Submit:

Space is limited! We will only accept the first 250 submissions.

1. Complete the Form: Each piece of artwork must be accompanied by the submission form below. Up to 2 pieces per student.
   CLICK HERE
2. Drop Off: Artwork is accepted in person at the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum, May 15 – June 5.
3. Deadline: Once we reach 250 submitted forms, submissions will officially close.

Important Dates:

• Submission Deadline: June 5
• Artwork must be dropped off by June 10
• Exhibit Dates: June 20 – July 4
• Awards Night: June 29 at 5:00 PM

Who Can Participate:

• Open to ages 5–18
• Participants must reside in Mackinaw County, Emmet County, or Cheboygan County
• All artwork must be original and created by the student.

Accepted Artwork:

• Paintings
• Drawings
• Photographs

Artwork Size Guidelines:

• Maximum size: 18″ x 24″
• Artwork should be lightweight and suitable for hanging with magnets or hooks. Thick or heavy pieces may not be accepted due to display limitations onboard the Icebreaker Mackinaw.

Presentation Guidelines:

• Both matted and unmatted artwork are accepted
• Artwork will be displayed using magnets or hooks whenever possible
• If adhesive is required, artwork may be carefully mounted or matted for display

Exhibit Location:

All artwork will be displayed onboard the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum

Prizes and Participation Benefits:

• Over $1,000 in prizes will be awarded
• Awards Night will take place on June 29 at 5:00 PM
• All participants will receive a family 4-pass to come aboard and view the exhibit

Artwork Submission:

Artwork will be accepted onboard the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM or by appointment at IMMM@themackinaw.org

Labeling Requirements:

• Student name (or ID number)
• Age
• Title of artwork
• Contact information (on the back of the piece)

Artwork Submission:

Artwork will be accepted onboard the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM or by appointment at IMMM@themackinaw.org Artwork is accepted in person at the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum, May 15 – June 5.

Artwork will be handled with care; however, the Mackinaw City Area Arts Council and the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum are not responsible for loss or damage.

Artwork must be picked up following the exhibit. Details on pick-up dates and times will be provided at drop-off. Any unclaimed artwork may not be returned.

Artwork must be appropriate for all audiences. The organizers reserve the right to decline any submission that does not meet guidelines.

Art Show Form