City of Bloomington Announces 13th Annual Eco-Heroes Art Contest to Celebrate Native Insects

The City of Bloomington Environmental Commission announced the 13th Annual Linda P. Thompson Eco-Heroes Art Contest, encouraging residents of all ages to explore the importance of native insects through artistic expression. This year’s theme, “Bugs in Bloom: How Native Insects Are Important to Bloomington,” invites participants to highlight the critical role insects play in the local ecosystem.

The contest is open to all City of Bloomington residents, with first-, second-, and third-place winners selected in the following categories:

• Pre-K to 2nd grade
• 3rd to 5th grade
• 6th to 8th grade
• 9th to 12th grade
• Adults (18+)

Participants may submit artwork in a variety of creative formats, including:

• 2D visual art (drawings, paintings, photography)
• 3D visual art (sculptures, fiber art, metalwork)
• Digital media (graphic design, videos)
• Performance art (songs, raps, plays/skits)
• Language arts (essays, poems)

Submissions that incorporate recycled or reused materials are highly encouraged.

Entries must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, April 11:

• Physical submissions: Deliver to City Hall, Front Desk (401 N. Morton St., Suite 130)
• Digital/text submissions: Email to Rachael Johnson at environment@bloomington.in.gov

Each submission must include the artist’s name, grade (if applicable), school (if applicable), and contact information (phone and email).

More details are available on the Eco-Heroes webpage.

Winners will be recognized at the Eco-Heroes Award Ceremony during the City’s Earth Day celebration at Switchyard Park on Saturday, April 19, at 1 p.m.

The Environmental Commission welcomes donations from local businesses, entrepreneurs, and residents to support the event.

For more information, contact Rachael Johnson at environment@bloomington.in.gov.