Trash to Treasure: An Art Affair

ACER, in collaboration with Reimagine Black Youth Mental Health initiative, welcomes you to join us for Trash to Treasure: An Art Affair, an unique art competition where creativity meets purpose.

Artists and visionaries are invited to transform discarded materials into powerful works of art, all centered around the theme of mental health. This inspiring event aims to spark dialogue, raise awareness, and highlight the healing power of artistic expression—proving that beauty and meaning can emerge from what’s been cast aside.

The event is FREE to enter, but the artist must be registered!

Whether you're an artist, mental health advocate, or someone who appreciates innovation and sustainability, this is your chance to demonstrate how "trash" can truly become treasure.

Competition Rules:

Sumbitted Art Pieces

1. Art pieces must be able to stand up on a table securely

2. Art pieces must not take up more than 30 inches of table space or be taller than 30 inches, there is no size minimum

3. Majority of the art must be constructed with trash or discarded material

4. Art pieces must be themed around Mental Health

Who can participate: Any young person between 13-19 years old

Selcting the winner:

1. Voting on the art will be available from 11am-1pm

2. Number of votes received combined with the scores from a panel of carefully selected anonymous community leaders will be used to determine the winners

3. Top 3 places will be given a winner's prize

4. The winner will have an opportunity to showcase their art at the Cultural Destination Boutique at the MN State Fair in August

Artist must submit the following information latest by June 20th, 2025 (email it to sbag@acerinc.org)

1. Full Name

2. Age

3. School (if associated with one)

4. A good quality photo (a headshot prefered)

5. Description of the art piece: What it is made of, what it means to the artist, etc. (in around 200 words)

Day of Logistics:

1. Artists need to check-in at the Shingle Creek Center by 10:30 am on Saturday, June 28, 2025

2. Tents and display tables will be set up already, the check-in desk will be able to direct artists to the space

3. Artists need to find their spot designated by an artist highlight card and set up their art piece (please ensure you have everything you need to securely and safely set your art piece on the tables provided) latest by 10:50 am. The event starts at 11am.

For more information, please contact Sohini McClannahan at sbag@acerinc.org.