Unleash Your Creativity

Participate in “Celebration of Creation”,

ANI’s National Art Experience For Children & Adults with Additional Needs.

Overview

The 4th Annual Art Experience
“Celebration of Creation”

This event is an immersive art experience designed to highlight the incredible talents and abilities of individuals with additional needs. While there is an optional art contest as part of the Celebration of Creation, participation in the contest is entirely up to you. Whether you choose to compete or not, you’ll still have the opportunity to display your artwork at the Naples Botanical Garden and enjoy the chance to win fantastic prizes. It’s more than a competition—it’s a fun and engaging celebration of creativity that brings EVERYONE together!

Theme

Nature

At ANI, we use the theme of Nature because it not only inspires creativity but also fosters a deep connection with the world around us—something particularly meaningful for individuals with additional needs. Both art and being in nature offer powerful ways to express oneself, enhance well-being, and build confidence. This theme invites artists to explore the outdoors and reflect on subjects such as animals, landscapes, seascapes, celestial skies, flora, and fauna. We welcome interpretations in all forms—whether representative, abstract, or conceptual—using mediums like painting, drawing, fiber art, photography, sculpture, or collage. Through this blend of art and nature, we aim to create a space where creativity flourishes, and individuals can express their unique perspectives.

Submission Guidelines:

To exhibit your artwork at the “Celebration of Creation” reception at Naples Botanical Garden, we are arranging a drop-off day (date to be announced). Families dropping off their artwork will receive complimentary admission to the Garden, providing an opportunity to explore its beauty.

Reception and Awards Ceremony:

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Naples Botanical Garden for partnering with Additional Needs, Inc. to host the 2024-2025 Art Contest Reception and Awards Ceremony. This free event will showcase artworks from five different age groups, ranging from Kindergarten to adults with additional needs.

Prizes & Categories

Prizes:

Additional Awards

Timeline:

  • October 1st, 2024

    Registration Begins

  • December 31st, 2024

    Entry Deadline

  • January 2nd-6th, 2025

    Public Voting

  • January 11th, 2025

    Finalists Announced

  • January 18th, 2025

    Winners Announced At The Reception

“We are inviting everyone in the United States with additional needs to take part. More details to come, and artist registration starts October 1st, 2024!”
Doug Sharpe
Founder
Available Positions

Previous Contest Results

2023-2024 Winners

2022-2023 Winners

2021-2022 Winners

Event Videos

Video Gallery 2022-2024 Celebration of Creation

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Artwork

Artwork for 2022-2024 Celebration of Creation

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Sponsors & Partners

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors for their support:

Become A Sponsor

Sponsorship Opportunities

We are actively seeking sponsors to support this event and provide more prizes. If you’re interested, please click here to register as a sponsor.