​​​2025 Timeline:

• Now through March 3: Review the official guidelines (below) and complete the interest form (bottom of page) to receive a reminder email when the submission form opens online. 

• March 4: School and Student Artwork Submission Form opens on our website 

• April 27: Last day to submit student artwork online 

• April 29: Begin artwork drop off – at the DMAF office located inside Mainframe Studios (900 Keosauqua Way, Studio 455, Des Moines, IA 50309) 

• May 23: Final day for artwork drop off 

• June 28: Visionary Artist Ceremony at the Des Moines Arts Festival® 

• July 8: Artwork displayed at GreenState Credit Union locations (artwork organized by schools - GreenState locations will be posted online.) 

• September 9, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.: Student Art Exhibition Reception and pick up 

• Post pick up reception - October 10: Artwork can be picked up from DMAF​

Official Guidelines

• Participating schools will be from the Central Iowa region. 

• Each school must complete the School and Student Artwork Information form (located at the bottom of the page).

  • Artwork must be submitted by the student's art teacher. Artwork submitted by students or parents are not accepted.​

• Each elementary school may submit up to  four  works that are two-dimensional and no larger than 12" x 18". 

• Each secondary school may submit up to  four  works that are two-dimensional and no larger than 18" x 24". 

• Only two-dimensional media is acceptable. 

• No stretched canvas. 

• Artwork must be created in the 2024-2025 school year.

• Do not mount or mat artwork. Staff will mount submitted artwork. 

• Schools must agree to review and honor U.S. copyright law (Title 17) and copyright guidelines provided by the Heartland Area Education Agency.

• Schools must be willing and able to print and send the Student/Parent Letter home with each student selected to participate in SAE. (Alternatively, the letter may be emailed to the parent).

• Schools must be willing to prepare Student Artwork to the specifications found in the SAE Official Guidelines.

• Schools must be willing and able to mail Student Artwork or deliver artwork on scheduled dates/times.

• Schools must be agreeable to the Artwork Pick-Up Policy​

• Additional questions may be sent to Atiana, DMAF Intern, at apilipovic@desmoinesartsfestival.org.

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