Design the artwork for the Virginia Institute of Marine Science’s Annual Open House

On May 30th, 2020, the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) will open its doors to the public during its annual Marine Science Day. This free, family-friendly program will allow visitors an up-close look at the important and fascinating research taking place at VIMS. Visitors can tour a research laboratory, the Teaching Marsh, the Oyster Hatchery, and the Nunnally Ichthyology Collection, attend a mini-lecture or seafood cooking demonstration, participate in hands-on activities, play games and make crafts at the Kids’ Pavilion, and so much more. Attendees can also participate in the Marine Life Costume Contest. Visit www.vims.edu/msd for more information on this contest.

VIMS is asking for the public’s help designing the artwork that will be used during Marine Science Day. Any one, of any age, can enter the art contest. Grand Prize winning artwork will be used on the Marine Science Day t-shirt and other promotional materials. Artwork should depict the ways VIMS scientists study marine life and our marine environment. Examples include sending out gliders, doing lab work, growing healthy oysters, testing water, catching sharks, etc. You can learn more about VIMS research at www.vims.edu. First, second, and third place winners will be chosen from each of the following categories: Children (K-8th grade) and Adult (9th grade and up, including adults). Each first place winner will receive a framed copy of their entry. The Grand Prize winner’s artwork will be featured on the t-shirt and will be awarded a $100 credit to the VIMS Gift Shop. Winners will be recognized at an awards ceremony during Marine Science Day, and all submitted artwork will be displayed during the day. All artwork must be received by VIMS by 4:00 pm on Monday, March 16th. Late submissions will not be eligible for prizes.

Visit www.vims.edu/msd for more information about the artwork contest (including rules and registration) and Marine Science Day. For questions, please call VIMS Advancement at 804-684-7061 or email [email protected].