The Doodle for Google student contest is a time for young artists’ work to shine through and earn global recognition for a day. Last year, the theme was “I am strong because…” For 2022, the tech giant is taking a similar approach for its 14th annual contest with a focus on the power of self with “I care for myself by…”
Google is requesting students competing in the contest to submit artwork revolved around their self-care practices, according to a blog post.
“We’re asking students to share how they nurture themselves in tough times,” the blog post reads. “What do they do to feel better when they’re feeling down? How do they approach taking a break? What activities make them feel calm or give them energy? What or who brings them joy? Our theme this year invites students to share how they take care of their minds, bodies and spirits as they face the opportunities and challenges every new day brings.”
This year’s judges are Grammy-nominated artist Selena Gomez, film director Elyse Fox and 2021 National Teacher of the Year Juliana Urtubey.
“Art is something that has always been an important part of my life,” Gomez said. “I am thrilled to join this year’s judges panel in the Doodle for Google contest as the theme is ‘I care for myself by,’ which is a topic close to my heart. As a longtime advocate for mental health awareness, the concept that self-care is becoming a part of our everyday conversation makes me hopeful for the future.”
Students from grades kindergarten through the 12th grade based in the U.S., Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are eligible to submit their artwork. The winning artist will get their work displayed on Google’s homepage for a day, a $30,000 college scholarship, and their school will be awarded a $50,000 technology grant. The deadline for submissions is Mar. 4.
To learn more about the Doodle for Google student contest, click here.
Along with spotlighting young talent, Google has featured artwork to celebrate Black History Month. On Feb. 9, the animated Google Doodle on the search engine’s homepage — illustrated by San Fransisco-based artist Monique Wray — honors Toni Stone, the first woman and woman of color in history to play professional baseball in a men’s major baseball league.
Today's @GoogleDoodles celebrates Toni Stone ⚾ the first woman to play in a men’s major baseball league.
Learn more about how she overcame gender and racial discrimination in pursuit of her dream with @NLBMuseumKC https://t.co/5Q6DlpiuDV pic.twitter.com/1w9eBMOQrC
— Google Arts&Culture (@googlearts) February 9, 2022
“Here’s to you, Toni Stone—thanks for showing the world what determination and unstoppable love for the game can achieve!” the tech company shared in a statement.