Pennsylvania Game Commission Launches 2027 Wildlife Art Contest

Entries due by July 31 with a focus on Pennsylvania shorebirds

Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:11pm

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A high-contrast, silkscreen-style illustration of a Pennsylvania shorebird, such as a killdeer or sanderling, repeated in a grid pattern with vibrant neon colors and heavy black outlines, conceptually representing the bold, modern aesthetic of the wildlife art contest.The Pennsylvania Game Commission's annual wildlife art contest celebrates the state's diverse shorebird species through bold, pop art-inspired illustrations.Harrisburg Today

The Pennsylvania Game Commission has opened submissions for its 2027 Wildlife Art Contest, with a focus on paintings featuring Pennsylvania shorebirds. Artists have until July 31 to submit their original, full-color paintings for a chance to win cash prizes and have their work featured in the agency's 'Working Together for Wildlife' fine art print series.

Why it matters

The annual wildlife art contest helps raise funds for the Pennsylvania Game Commission's wildlife research and management programs, while also engaging the public and promoting conservation efforts. By inspiring artists to depict the state's diverse shorebird species, the contest aims to raise awareness and appreciation for these important coastal habitats.

The details

This year's contest is restricted to paintings measuring 14x20 inches or 20x14 inches, with a 2-inch white border or mat. Qualifying submissions must include at least one of 19 specified shorebird species found in Pennsylvania. The winning artist will receive $5,000 and 25 artist proof prints, while cash prizes will also be awarded for the top five finishers.

  • The contest is open for submissions until 4 p.m. on July 31, 2026.
  • The winning painting will be featured in the 2027 'Working Together for Wildlife' fine art print series.

The players

Pennsylvania Game Commission

The state agency responsible for wildlife management and conservation in Pennsylvania.

Lauren Ferreri

Leads the Game Commission's Bureau of Information and Education and oversees the 'Working Together for Wildlife' program.

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What they’re saying

“Revenues received from the sale of signed and numbered prints help finance wildlife research and management programs in Pennsylvania, meaning participating artists not only have a chance to take home winnings, but to help fund wildlife conservation through their work.”

— Lauren Ferreri, Bureau of Information and Education Lead

What’s next

The winning artist will be required to pencil-sign up to 200 limited edition fine art prints produced from the original painting, with the signing conducted at the Game Commission's Harrisburg headquarters.

The takeaway

The Pennsylvania Game Commission's annual wildlife art contest provides a unique opportunity for artists to showcase their talents while also supporting the agency's vital conservation efforts. By focusing on the state's diverse shorebird species, the 2027 contest aims to inspire greater appreciation and protection for these important coastal habitats.