Drawing competition showcases Mexico’s true colours

By Education Gazette editors

Issue: Volume 97, Number 4

Posted: 12 March 2018

Reference #: 1H9hpN

Mariachi music, salsa, and Frida Kahlo all have something in common: Mexico! But what do the children of the world really know about this culturally rich and historically significant country? A global drawing competition hopes to showcase the answer.

The XXII Children’s Drawing Competition, run by the Institute of Mexicans Abroad through Mexican Embassies and Consulates worldwide, aims to strengthen relationships between Mexico and other nations.

Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Mexico in New Zealand Daniela Gil Sevilla says the competition is about forming connections.

“The purpose of this competition is to form bridges between nations and people, to learn about each other’s countries and to create a space for children to express themselves and their ideas about Mexico,” she says. “We want to hear from kids of all nationalities.”

The last time New Zealand had a winning entry in the competition was in 2010.

“We hope to have a winner from New Zealand this year,” says Daniela.

The 2018 competition is also particularly significant as it marks the 45th year of diplomatic relations between Mexico and New Zealand. Entrants (aged 6–14) are to create artwork using any medium on a piece of 30 x 30cm cardboard. Twelve winners and 50 honourable mentions will be chosen from around the globe. Selected pieces will then be exhibited in Mexico City before touring the world.

The exhibition has never come to New Zealand, but may be held here for the first time if a Kiwi child is selected as a winner or receives an honourable mention.

As well as the chance to have their work exhibited, successful candidates will receive Mexican literature, a certificate and a surprise gift. The 62 selected drawings will also be published in the 2019 Institute of Mexicans Abroad calendar, which is distributed worldwide.

A panel consisting of representatives from the Ministry of Culture of Mexico, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Institute of Mexicans Abroad and guest artists will judge the competition. Judges will take the age of the participant and their geographical location into consideration when making their decisions.

This is the 22nd time the competition, which has been running since 1997, will be held.
This year’s theme is ‘Éste es mi México’ (‘This is my Mexico’). Entrants are encouraged to learn about Mexico and create art inspired by the country’s history, traditions, food, beaches and music.

“This is all about culture and about what kids think about Mexico.”

Download an application form for the XXII Children's Drawing Competition(external link).

Please submit your entry by 31 May 2018 to the nearest embassy or consulate in your area:

Embassy of Mexico, Wellington
PO Box 11-510
Manners Street
Wellington 6142

Consulate of Mexico, Christchurch
PO Box 2331, Christchurch 8140

Consulate of Mexico, Auckland
PO Box 7311, Auckland 1141