(ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Sept. 1, 2010) The Maryland Judiciary is looking for young artists to help promote peacemaking through art. Therefore, it is inviting Maryland pupils, in grades from kindergarten through eight, to submit artwork for the fifth Conflict Resolution Day Student Bookmark Art Contest. The contest is sponsored by the Maryland Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO) in observance of National Conflict Resolution Day on Thursday, Oct. 21.

Artwork for the contest should reflect the theme of resolving or preventing conflict. That theme includes, and, so, the artwork might address, peer mediation, talking things out, apologizing, respecting differences, solving problems together, listening, tolerance, building peace, or alternatives to violence.

Submissions are due by Friday, Oct. 1. Original artwork may be submitted using a template available on MACRO’s website, www.mdcourts.gov/macro, or on any paper format. The finished image size should be no larger than 3 inches high by 9 inches wide.

Entries will be judged on creativity and the message conveyed. Entries may be mailed or delivered to MACRO, 903 Commerce Rd., Annapolis, Md., 21401.  As indicated, the contest is open to Maryland pupils, from kindergarten through eighth grade.

Prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third place in three age groups: kindergarten-second grade; third-fifth grade; and sixth-eighth grade. The prize for each age group is: $75 for first place; $50 for second place; and $25 for third place. In addition to the prizes, three to five entries may be selected to be printed as bookmarks to promote conflict resolution across Maryland.

The art will be displayed at the Robert C. Murphy Courts of Appeal Building in Annapolis from Oct. 21-Nov. 20. Winning students and their families will be honored at a ceremony and reception at the Courts of Appeal Building at 4 p.m. on Oct. 21. Chief Judge Robert M. Bell of the Maryland Court of Appeals will present the awards.

For more information about the Conflict Resolution Day Student Bookmark Art Contest, contact Alecia Parker, 410-260-3540, or alecia.parker@mdcourts.gov.  

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Media: For more information, please contact the Office of Communications and Public Affairs, 410-260-1488, or angelita.plemmer@mdcourts.gov.