The Federal Duck Stamp
Art Contest
A Longstanding Tradition of Inspiring Wildlife Art and Conservation
About the Contest
With a rich history dating back to 1949, the Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest is a highly respected annual competition that celebrates the beauty of North American waterfowl through the lens of different and uniquely talented artists.
Each year, talented artists compete to have their winning wildlife art featured on the Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, commonly called the "Duck Stamp."
This stamp is not only a collectible for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts but also a crucial conservation tool. Revenue generated from Duck Stamp sales goes directly towards protecting vital wetland habitats that are essential for countless bird species.
Why Should You Enter?
National Recognition: Gain exposure for your wildlife artwork on a national platform, reaching millions of conservationists and art enthusiasts nationwide. Your winning design could be featured on millions of Duck Stamps, seen by hunters, birdwatchers and outdoor recreationists everywhere.
Conservation Impact: Become a champion for wetlands and waterfowl by supporting a vital funding source. Duck Stamp sales have raised over 1 billion dollars for wetland conservation efforts, directly contributing to the protection of millions of acres of habitat for ducks, geese, swans and countless other wildlife species.
Challenge Your Artistic Talents: Test your skills and compete amongst the best wildlife artists in the country. Entering the contest is an opportunity to push your creative boundaries, learn from other artists and be judged by a panel of respected experts in the field.
Who is Eligible to Enter?
All U.S. citizens, nationals or resident aliens 18 years or older are eligible to participate. To enter the contest, you'll need to create an original artwork piece (no photography or computer art) featuring one of the five eligible species:
- Brant
- Northern Shoveler
- Greater Scaup
- Spectacled Eider
- Hooded Merganser
Your artwork size must be 7"x10" with a 1" white mat. Don't include any writing or your signature.
Entry submission opens June 1, 2024, and the deadline is August 15, 2024. You'll need to include the official entry form and payment of $125 to have your artwork judged. The winning artwork will be announced in September 2024.
The National Junior Duck Stamp Contest
Inspiring the Next Generation of Conservation Artists
About the Contest
The Junior Duck Stamp Contest provides a unique platform for students in grades K-12 to showcase their artistic talents while learning to have a deeper appreciation for nature.
This program bridges the gap between education and creative expression. The Junior Duck Stamp Contest ignites curiosity about these amazing birds and their vital role in wetland ecosystems by encouraging students to depict various waterfowl species in their natural habitats.
Who Can Enter?
Any student in the United States and its territories attending public, private, or homeschool can enter the contest. First-place winners at the state level progress to the national competition, and this year, it will be held in Falls Church, VA, on April 19, 2024.
While international exchange students can compete at the state level, only U.S. citizens, resident aliens, or nationals are eligible for national awards.
Similar to the Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest for adults, there are certain limitations on the types of waterfowl that can be submitted. However, there is a much more broad list of species that are eligible for submission.
2023 Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest Winner
About the Winner
Montana-based artist Chuck Black achieved a lifelong dream when his oil painting of a Northern Pintail was crowned the 2023 Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest winner.
Black's artwork skillfully captures the beauty and detail of this iconic waterfowl, beating out 198 other talented artist submissions. His winning artwork will be featured on the 2024-25 Duck Stamp, which goes on sale in June 2024.
As a passionate wildlife artist since childhood, Black drew inspiration from renowned Minnesota artists such as the Hautman brothers and Terry Redlin. This win marks his 10th time entering the contest, with his first submission back in 2009.
Artist
Chuck Black - Belgrade, Montana
Featured Wildlife
Northern Pintail
Artwork Description
An oil painting of a beautiful Northern Pintail swimming alone in an isolated pond.
