REFLECTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I submit more than one project?
Absolutely! Students may submit as many projects as they like, in as many arts categories as they like.
Can I submit a project with a partner or team?
No. Each entry must be the original work of one student only. An adult may not alter the creative integrity of a student's work. Because the program is designed to encourage and recognize each student's individual creativity, help from an adult or collaboration with other students is not allowed except in the Special Artist Division. Other individuals may appear in or perform a student's work, but the work itself must be the creative product of one student only. Only one student may be recognized as the award recipient for each entry. See specific arts category rules and special artist division rules for details.
Can my parents help with my project?
No. See answer to question above.
Do I have to write an "artist's statement"?
Yes. This is required for each entry. Qualifying entries must include a project title and artist statement. The artist statement communicates what inspired the work, how it relates to the theme, and the content of the work. The statement must include at least 10 words and not exceed 100 words.
What is the judging criteria for projects advancing to the next level?
1) Interpretation - How closely the piece relates to the theme, based on the artwork itself and the artist statement. (The artist statement -- which is part of the Entry Form -- is very important!)
2) Creativity - How creative and original the piece is in its conception of the theme and its presentation.
3) Technique - The level of skill demonstrated in the basic principles / techniques of the arts area.
ABOUT REFLECTIONS
The Reflections Program was established in 1969 by the National PTA. Since that time, more than 10 million students have participated in this annual program.
The PTA Reflections Program is an arts recognition and achievement program for students. A theme is given and students can submit work in one of the categories. Participation and appreciation for the arts is the Reflections Program's goal. Although the Reflections Program follows a "contest" format, winning is not the emphasis.
Reflections 2023-24: I am Hopeful Because...
Fall 2023
The PTA Reflections Program is an arts recognition and achievement program for students. A theme is given and students can submit work in one of the categories. Participation and appreciation for the arts is the Reflections Program's goal. Although the Reflections Program follows a "contest" format, winning is not the emphasis.
The theme for 2023-24 is: I am Hopeful Because... Reflections project categories include: Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, and Visual Arts. There also is a Special Artist division option for students with disabilities to ensure that all students have the opportunity to participate in the program.
No experience is required to participate and all grade levels are welcome. It does not matter whether an entry created for the Reflections Program has been created as a classroom assignment or independently at home. Only individual, original works of art are accepted. No group projects are allowed. Once judged at the local level, the winners go on to the council and/or district judging. Those winners go to the Illinois PTA to receive recognition.
Completed projects will be due at the beginning of November. All rules and regulations for each category, downloadable entry forms, and submission details will be found on this webpage when they are available.
If you have any other questions please contact Tracy Ries.