Young artists are invited to display their talents and learn about aviation through an annual art contest sponsored by PennDOT’s Bureau of Aviation.

“Aviation is an important industry in Pennsylvania, and this is a great opportunity for kids to learn about it while having fun,” said PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch, P.E.

“Aviation’s Value to My Community” is the theme of this year’s contest. Entries will be judged in two divisions: first through third grades, and fourth and fifth grades. Entries must be postmarked by October 14th.

There will be 22 statewide winners, with one winner from each division selected from each of PennDOT’s 11 district offices. Winners will receive a certificate signed by Schoch, and a mounted, full-color, 16-by-20-inch copy of their entry. The students’ schools will also receive a mounted copy of the artwork for display.

Artwork should be submitted on 8.5-by-11-inch or 9-by-12-inch paper, unframed, unmatted and unlaminated. All work must be done by hand (there is an exception for children with physical challenges).

Permitted formats are: acrylic, oil paint, felt-tip pens, indelible ink, soft ballpoint pens, watercolor or crayons. Formats that are not permitted include: non-permanent media such as pencil or charcoal, computer-generated artwork and collage work using photocopies. The back of each submission should include the student’s name, teacher’s name, grade level, county and school address and phone number. Entries will not be returned. Winners’ schools will be notified by telephone.

Send entries to: Bureau of Aviation, c/o Harrison Brooks, 400 North Street, Harrisburg, PA 17120 or P.O. Box 3457, Harrisburg, PA 17120-0064.