Astoria Column
CENTENNIAL
Poster Contest
The City of Astoria and Astoria Visual Arts invite artists of all ages to help celebrate 100 years of the Astoria Column by designing a commemorative poster for the 2026 Centennial Celebration.
The winning design will be professionally printed and distributed to visitors during the celebration, becoming a keepsake honoring one of Oregon’s most iconic landmarks.
Artists are encouraged to interpret the history, beauty, and significance of the Astoria Column in a creative and visually compelling way.
Please read carefully the submission details
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: May 31, by 11:59pm.
Who Can Participate
The contest is open to all artists residing in Oregon. There are three category divisions:
• Student Division (Ages 5–17)
• Young Adult Division (Ages 18–25)
• Adult Division (26+)
Participants may submit one original design per person.
Poster Design Requirement
Artwork should celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Astoria Column (1926–2026) and may highlight:
• The Astoria Column itself
• Astoria’s landscape and river views
• Local history or exploration themes
• The spirit of community celebration
• Balsa gliders or other Column traditions
Designs should reflect the significance and joy of the Centennial celebration.
Required Elements
Each design must include:
• The Astoria Column featured prominently
• The text: “Astoria Column Centennial”
• The dates: 1926 – 2026
Designs should be suitable for a commemorative poster that will be printed and given away to the public.
Artwork Specifications
• Poster format: Vertical orientation preferred
• Recommended size: 11" x 17"
• Artwork must be original work created by the participant
• Designs may be created using traditional or digital mediums
• Submitted artwork should be high resolution and print-ready (pdf, jpg or png)
Final selected art work may be digitally prepared for printing if needed.
Judging Criteria
Entries will be evaluated on the following:
• Creativity & Originality – Does the artwork offer a fresh and engaging interpretation of the Astoria Column and its
centennial?
• Connection to the Theme – How well does the design celebrate the history and significance of the Astoria Column?
• Visual Impact – Does the poster attract attention and communicate clearly from a distance?
• Commemorative Quality – Would this design make a meaningful keepsake for visitors attending the 100-year celebration?
• Print & Display Quality – Is the design suitable for reproduction as a public poster?
• Collectability – Does this feel like something someone would want to keep and frame?
Winner Recognition
The winning artist will receive:
• Their design professionally printed as the official Centennial commemorative poster
• Recognition at the Astoria Column Centennial Celebration
• Artist credit on the poster and event promotions
• Cash prize ($200 for adult division, $100 young adult, $50 student)
• Winning artwork will be distributed to event attendees as part of the Centennial festivities.
Submission Details
Participants will submit:
• A digital image of their poster design
• Artist name and contact information
• Age category
• Artwork title, medium, dimensions
• Artwork in pdf, jpg or png format.
Submission deadline: May 31 by 11:59pm
Please reach out to Annie at astoriavisualarts@gmail.com, if you have any questions.