(COPY) 2026 Kids Art Contest
This summer, the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI) invites artists under the age of 18 to reflect on the symbol of the origami crane, which represents hope and peace. The contest is part of the Cranes for Our Future campaign, a partnership between NTI and the prefectures of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The campaign honors those affected by the 1945 bombings and invites young people to carry forward the lessons of the past and imagine a safer future where nuclear weapons are never used again.
The winner’s artwork will be shared by organizations, experts, and cultural leaders around the world between August 6 and 9.
How to Participate
Make Art!
Create a piece of art inspired by the origami crane, a symbol of peace and hope for a safer future. Any medium—from painting and sculpture to collage and printmaking—is welcome!
Take a Photo
Take a clear, well-lit photograph or scan the artwork. We encourage you to use a plain background and full or natural lighting. Make sure to keep the artwork in a safe place (in case your child wins!)
Submit Your Art
Upload the artwork using this form by July 27 to enter your child’s artwork in the contest! Post their masterpiece on social media using the hashtag #CranesForOurFuture.
Why the Crane?
The origami crane is a universal symbol of peace and hope, made famous by an 11-year-old Japanese girl named Sadako Sasaki.
When Sadako was diagnosed with radiation-induced leukemia a decade after surviving the bombing in Hiroshima, she attempted to fold 1,000 paper cranes in the hopes that her wish to live would be granted.
While Sadako did not survive, her legacy of paper cranes did, inspiring her classmates, and then the world, with a message of peace, hope, and resilience. Today, people all around the world fold cranes in her honor and in the hopes for a brighter, safer future for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The competition is open to young people under the age of 18.
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Submitted artwork may be featured as part of the Cranes for Our Future campaign and related educational, commemorative, or promotional activities.
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Artwork can be any size but must be able to be photographed clearly for submission.
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Parents, guardians, and teachers may assist with photographing and submitting artwork, but the artwork itself must be created by the child.
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NTI will only share the winner’s first name and the city where they live. We don’t ask for their last name in the submission form and will work hard to protect our contestants.
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Any photo file type is acceptable, including .PNG, .JPG, or .TIFF.
Still have questions?
Reach out if you have questions about eligibility, submissions, or contest requirements.