Whitmer Announces Art And Writing Contests For 2026 State Of The State

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is calling on K-12 students to show off their creative skills for the 2026 State of the State program.

For the art contest, Whitmer is asking young creators to paint Michigan’s bright future, and "what does Michigan's bright future look like to you?”

She encouraged students to be as creative as possible and are welcome to use a wide range of supplies ranging from crayons, markers, paints, or any other materials.

To submit your design, please visit Michigan.gov/ArtContest and follow the instructions on the webpage.

In addition to the art contest, Whitmer is also asking young Michiganders to write their best short story or essay about what they love the most about Michigan.

The winning student’s writing will be featured as part of the governor’s State of the State Address next month.

To submit your short story or essay, please visit the submission website and follow the instructions on the webpage.

Submissions for both the art and writing contests will be accepted exclusively through the online system and must be received no later than 11:59PM on Sunday, February 15th.

"Michigan is growing as we continue working together to create good-paying jobs, fix our roads, support our small businesses, and invest in our students and schools," Whitmer said. "The proposals I will share in this year’s State of the State address will build on the progress we’ve made and move Michigan forward. Underpinning all of that is our love for the incredible state we call home, and the people, places, and communities that make it great. That’s why I’m challenging our youngest Michiganders to get involved and share what they love most about Michigan!"

The address will happen at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25 in the Michigan House Chambers in front of a joint session of lawmakers. The address will be broadcast live throughout the state.

She will recount some of her accomplishments over the past seven years in office, and focus on her 2026 goals, which include, creating jobs, lowering costs, continuing record investments in education and literacy, building housing and more.

You can watch the address on local TV, online at michigan.gov/StateOfTheState, Facebook and Youtube.