Sep 12 2026
Making Waves
Engage. Educate. Protect Our Gulf.
Making Waves is a three-year initiative funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to protect and restore the Texas Gulf Coast. Through this project, Keep Texas Beautiful is exploring how environmental messages influence real-world action to prevent litter and reduce plastic pollution in Texas waterways.
The project combines research, education, and engagement—empowering high school students and communities to make a difference. A statewide art and slogan contest will invite youth to create inspiring messages about litter prevention, while cleanup events across Texas will turn those messages into action.
The winning artwork and slogan will help shape a statewide campaign encouraging Texans to Engage. Educate. Protect Our Gulf.
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Making WAVES Art & Slogan Contest
The Making WAVES Art & Slogan Contest invites Texas high school students to create original artwork and a memorable slogan that inspires people to prevent litter, protect waterways, and take action in their communities.
The winning artwork and slogan will help shape a statewide litter-prevention campaign in 2028.
Contest dates: December 1, 2026–January 31, 2027
Explore the Student Artist Guide
Explore the Teacher Guide
Explore the Affiliate Guide
Contest Overview
Contest dates: December 1, 2026–January 31, 2027
Who can enter: Texas high school students ages 14 and older who are currently enrolled in grades 9–12 at a public or private high school. Students under 18 must have permission from a parent or legal guardian. Each student may submit one individual entry.
What to submit: Each entry must include:
- One original, two-dimensional artwork measuring 8.5 × 11 inches and submitted as a high-resolution JPG or PNG
- One original slogan submitted separately from the artwork
The slogan and other messaging text should not appear within the artwork.
How to enter: Entries must be submitted through the online entry form by January 31, 2027. Physical and mailed submissions will not be accepted.
Prizes
Grand Prize
- $1,800 Ruthe Jackson Youth and Educator Award
- $1,000 travel stipend to attend the 2027 KTB Annual Conference
- Statewide recognition and the opportunity to have the winning artwork and slogan featured in KTB’s 2028 litter prevention campaign
- A KTB-sponsored community cleanup
- Up to 10 water bottle refill stations for the winner’s school
Second Place
$700
Third Place
$500
Educator Awards
Two participating teachers will each receive a $1,000 Ruthe Jackson Youth and Educator Award. See the Teacher Guide for eligibility requirements.
