Escape the Vape

Anti-Vaping Art Contest for Students in Dutchess County

Winner's Creativity to be Used in a Local Media Campaign

Use Your Art to Make an Impact

Are you a middle- or high-school-aged student in Dutchess County? This is your chance to use creativity to speak up about the real risks of vaping and inspire others to make healthier choices.

Create original artwork that sends a clear message: Vaping isn’t worth it.

Who Can Enter

• Middle- and high-school-aged students, ages 14-18 in Dutchess County
• One original artwork per student

Why It Matters

Vaping can harm developing brains and bodies. Your art can help raise awareness, start conversations, and protect the health of teens across Dutchess County.

Selected artwork will be shared publicly to amplify student voices throughout the community.

What to Create

Submit original artwork that encourages teens to avoid vaping or quit using vape products while focusing on Dutchess County and featuring locations or communities within the county.

Accepted formats include:

• MP4 or MOV file video, 30-90 seconds in length
• A descriptive storyboard of a video script, 30-90 seconds in length
• A piece of visual 2-D art up to 24X30 inches in size
• A piece of art graphically designed
• Content may not be generated through Artificial Intelligence (AI). If selected, the student must be able to work with a local media group to produce a professional version of their video

How to Enter

1. Create your artwork based on the anti-vaping theme
2. Upload your artwork before the deadline at http://dutchessny.gov/artupload by contest deadline

Submission Deadline: April 3, 2026.

Prizes & Recognition

• The first-place winner will be awarded a paid internship with the Art Effect to create a professional and polished version of the video/ad.
• Winning artwork will be featured in community spaces and television ads.
• Top 3 winners will have their art used on social media as well as receive certificates and recognition.
• County Executive Serino will present the winners with certificates of accomplishment.

Judging Criteria

Artwork will be judged on:

• Creativity and originality
• Strength of message
• Visual impact
• Connection to teen audiences

This contest is proudly presented by:

• Dutchess County Department of Health
• Dutchess BOCES
• The Art Effect

Working together to support youth voices and healthier futures.