Create the official artwork for the 2027 Great Texas Birding Classic

For 30 years, the Great Texas Birding Classic has celebrated the birds, habitats, and people that make Texas one of the best birding destinations in the country.

Now, we’re inviting artists to help tell that story.

The Great Texas Birding Classic Art Contest is a new way to participate in the Birding Classic — by sharing your original bird-inspired artwork. One winning artist will be selected as the Official Artist of the 2027 Great Texas Birding Classic.

OFFICIAL CONTEST RULES & GUIDELINES

What Does the Winner Receive?

The selected artist will:

• Be named the Official Artist for the 2027 Great Texas Birding Classic
• Have their winning artwork featured on the official 2027 event t-shirt
• Receive artist credit on event materials, the Birding Classic website, and promotions
• Receive all associated prizes listed in the contest rules (under Prizes)
• Join the legacy of Birding Classic artists whose work represents this statewide conservation event

This is a unique opportunity to showcase your art to a large, engaged audience of birders, conservationists, and nature lovers across Texas and beyond.

Who Can Enter?

• Artists of all experience levels are welcome
• Traditional and digital media are accepted
• Artwork must be original (no AI generated artwork)
• Artwork must include one or more species from the approved native Texas bird species list in the official rules (under Entry Guidelines)

You do not need to be a birder or a previous Birding Classic participant to enter.

What Are We Looking For?

We’re seeking artwork that:

• Translates well to a t-shirt design
• Is visually engaging, original, and memorable
• Celebrates birds in Texas
• Does not include words, numbers, or other text (TPWD will add all necessary text to winning artwork)

How to Enter

Review the official contest rules and artwork guidelines.

1. Follow all instructions under Entry Guidelines
2. Prepare your original artwork according to the specifications in the rules
3. Include required information with your email submission

A panel selected by the Great Texas Birding Classic will review all eligible entries and select the Grand Prize winning artist. Winners will be selected in three categories: Single Species, Single Species Flock, and Multi-Species Flock. A Grand Prize Winner then becomes the 2027 Birding Classic official artist.

Important Dates

• Contest opens: January 12, 2026
• Submission deadline: 5:00pm (Central Time), May 1, 2026
• Winning artist announced: June 13, 2026 at the Birding Classic Awards Ceremony, San Antonio, Texas

Why a Bird Art Contest?

Birding isn’t just about checklists — it’s about noticing beauty, patterns, and moments. This contest celebrates the artists who help us see birds differently and share that wonder with others.

Ready to Share Your Art?

Submit your artwork and help shape the look of the 2027 Great Texas Birding Classic.

View Official Contest Rules & Guidelines

Join the the ranks of past Birding Classic artists!