Celebrating Art and Wildlife Conservation
Connecting Our
Past & Future
Over billions of years, life on our planet has evolved, flourished, and vanished—scientists estimate that nearly 99% of all species that ever lived are now extinct. Today, human activities are accelerating this process at an alarming rate, threatening ecosystems and the biodiversity we depend on. By honoring lost species through art, this contest aims to raise awareness about the fragility of life and the urgent need to respect and protect the natural world. Every brushstroke becomes a call to remember, to learn, and to act—for the future of all living things.
"The Final Day"
---- Sarah Kong, Grade 10, CA
THE VANISHING POINT:
EXTINCT SPECIES ART CONTEST
Vanishing Point invites young artists worldwide to participate in this international competition, dedicated this year to the theme of extinct species. Through creative expression, students are encouraged to reflect on the countless species that have disappeared throughout Earth’s history and consider how their stories can inspire a more mindful future. This contest is open to students from kindergarten through 12th grade, including those enrolled in primary or secondary schools or the home-school equivalent. College and university students are not eligible to participate.
Participants will be judged in four grade categories, with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners recognized in each group:
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Grades K–2
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Grades 3–5
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Grades 6–8
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Grades 9–12
Let your imagination honor the past and ignite change—through art that remembers what the world has lost.
The 2025 Vanishing Point Art Contest
Your artwork may depict any extinct animal of your choice, from well-known dinosaurs to lesser-known vanished species. However, we encourage all participants to aim for paleo accuracy—meaning your representation should be as close as possible to what scientists believe the species actually looked like. This will require thoughtful research and careful observation. When submitting your piece, you’ll also be asked to include the name of the species you chose. Keep in mind that scientific accuracy will be one of the judging criteria. For full details, please refer to the Rules and Guidelines section.
*Tip: You can use the chart below to help decide which prehistoric animal you want to depict and from which time period. Remember, paleo accuracy is a very important judging criterion!
