Rau for Art Foundation Scholarship

Started in 2012, RFA hosts an annual Art Scholarship Competition in which local high school artists submit an original artwork based on a new theme every year. The ten finalists are granted the opportunity to exhibit their artworks at M.S. Rau. Four winning artists, selected by a panel of rotating guest judges, are granted a total of $13,000 in college scholarship funds. Furthermore, the first-place winner is presented with the opportunity to study art in Italy, inspired by the tradition of the Prix de Rome.

2024-2025 Theme: Inanimate Inspirations

Andy Warhol looked at everyday objects like soup cans and Brillo pads and saw exciting possibilities. In a similar way, Georgia O’Keeffe spent years painting different flowers, bringing them to life with her unique style. Create a 2-dimensional piece of artwork that explores the themes of a still life but adds either a personal twist or feeling to the traditional form. Rather than a straightforward depiction of objects, create a piece that infuses these inanimate subjects with a rich, emotional narrative. Technical skill is of the utmost importance, so show us your best work!

Submissions for 2024-2025 are now open! Click here to submit your work for consideration. Good luck!

Submission Deadline: February 3, 2025

Eligibility

Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors in Orleans, Jefferson, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Tammany, and St. Charles Parishes. You are welcome whether you are enrolled in a public, private, parochial, or home school. You do not have to be currently enrolled in an art class to participate. The competition is free to enter.

Artwork Criteria

Students are only permitted to submit ONE artwork per year, and it must be created wholly by you. Only two-dimensional artworks are accepted. The maximum dimensions accepted are 36“ high x 36” wide. Paintings and/or drawings are accepted in the following media: oil, acrylic, watercolor, gouache, graphite, colored pencil, pen and ink, pastel, charcoal, etc. Layered artwork (collage) is permitted only if all materials utilized are produced by the artist. The use of found materials (newsprint/magazine clips, 3D objects, digital images) is not permitted. Photographic submissions are not accepted.

All students are also expected to submit a short artist statement along with their artwork, explaining the ideas behind their piece as well as their interpretation of that year’s theme.

Your artwork will be judged on the following criteria: technical ability and execution, originality, and your interpretation of the theme.

Scholarship Prizes

• First Place: $7000 (with the option to study in Italy) + $500 to your high school’s art department
• Second Place: $3000
• Third Place: $1500
• Fourth Place: $1000

All scholarships are paid directly to the college or university you will attend. Funds will be held until winners graduate from high school, regardless of their grade when winning the competition.