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.
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: May 31, by 11:59pm.
Astoria Column
CENTENNIAL
Poster Contest
CONTEST INFORMATION
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 Themes
Artwork should celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Astoria Column (1926–2026), reflecting the significance of the Centennial celebration. Designs may include:
• 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
Required Elements
Each design must include:
• The Astoria Column featured prominently
• The text: “Astoria Column Centennial”
• The dates: 1926 – 2026
Artwork Specifications
• Poster format: Vertical orientation preferred
• Recommended size: 11" x 17"
• Artwork must be original artwork created by the participant
• Designs may be created using traditional or digital mediums
• Submitted artwork should be a high resolution pdf, jpg or png (2MB or under)
Judging Criteria
Entries will be evaluated on the following by three professional Astoria artists:
• 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.
Please reach out to Annie at astoriavisualarts@gmail.com, if you have any questions.