1920 x 640_Newsletter

2026 Art Pathways Contest

 

 

Sponsors

McAllen-Hidalgo_Logo 3-01  Anzalduas_Logo 3-01
Airport   MCALLEN SHINES BRANDING-02 (1)
clark_subsidiary_oem_color

 

 

Categories

At each library branch location, participants are divided into three age groups:

5-8 years; 9-13 years; and, 14-18 years. First, second, and third place will be awarded in each group.

 

 

Locations

Lark 3Lark Branch Library
2601 Lark Avenue, McAllen
(p) 956-681-3010



Fountain 3Main Library
4001 N. 23rd St., McAllen
(p) 956-681-3000



PV FrontPalm View Branch Library
3401 Jordan Rd. W., McAllen
(p) 956-681-3110

 

 

Important Dates to Remember

Contest Starts:
Tuesday, April 7, 2026

Art Kit Pick-Up Starts:
Tuesday, April 7, 2026
Pick up free art supplies including an 8 in x 10 in canvas, paint, and brushes. Available to the first 500 participants.
While supplies last.


Contest Ends:
Friday, May 8, 2026

Awards Ceremony:
Main Library
Sunday, June 7, 2026
2:00PM

 

 

Disclaimer

By entering the contest, participants agree that their artwork becomes the property of McAllen Public Library. Submissions may be photographed or reproduced for display and promotional purposes. Contest winners will be recognized at an awards ceremony on Sunday, June 7 at 2:00PM. 

 

 

Downloads
About
Art Pathways is a youth art contest all about books, imagination, and showing off the creativity of McAllen kids and teens. Read a book, paint your favorite moment, and bring the story to life with a little help from Marty the Library Cat, who loves sneaking into great stories just as much as you do. 

 

 

Contest Guidelines

Qualifications:
  • Ages 5-18
  • Participant must live in McAllen, TX
  • Participant must have an active McAllen Public Library Card
  • Visit any McAllen Public Library location
  • Check out a book at the Circulation Desk
  • Register for the contest at checkout
  • Only one entry person

The Art Challenge:
  • Create your artwork on an 8 in x 10 in canvas only 
  • Use acrylic paint only & canvas must be dry on submission
  • Paint a scene, moment, or detail from your favorite part of the book you read 
  • Draw Marty the Library Cat into your favorite story 
  • Artwork must be original 
  • Only sign artwork on the back of the canvas

Artist Statement:

Each entry must include a short written description on the provided index card that tells us:

  • Title of the book you read 
  • The statement must be 2-3 sentences long
  • What part of the story inspired your artwork 
  • Each participant will be assigned a number that matches their artwork and statement

 

 

FAQs

How do I get a McAllen Public Library Card?
To register for a library card, visit any McAllen Public Library location with a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current U.S. mailing address, such as a recent utility bill or mailed envelope.

How do participants turn in their artwork?
  - Artwork must be submitted by Friday, May 8 at 5:00PM
  - Drop off your completed piece at any McAllen Public Library location 
  - Late submissions will not be accepted

Where can my child get a free art kit?
To receive a free art kit, participants must register at the Circulation Desk of any McAllen Public Library location. Supplies are limited to the first 500 participants.

Can participants use a book from home instead?
Participants may use a book from their personal collection for inspiration, but they must still check out a library book to register.

What kind of art supplies can participants use?
Participants must use an 8 in x 10 in canvas and acrylic paints only.

What are the age groups?
At each library branch location, participants are divided into three age groups: 5–8yrs; 9–13yrs;
and 14–18 yrs. First, second, and third place will be awarded in each group.

How will I know if my child has won?
You will be contacted on the week of May 25th.

Where will the award ceremony be?
The award ceremony will take place on Sunday, June 7 at 2:00PM in the Main Library’s Auditorium.

Will all artwork be displayed?
Yes. All submitted artwork will be displayed at all McAllen Public Library locations.

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