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Imagine a World Without Weight Stigma:
OAC’s 20th Anniversary Creative Contest
In celebration of the Obesity Action Coalition’s (OAC) 20th Anniversary in 2025, we invite you to join us in imagining a world free from weight stigma — and bring that vision to life through creativity.
For 20 years, OAC has worked to raise awareness about obesity, challenge misconceptions, provide real education and support, and fight for access to care. Now, as we reflect on how far we’ve come, we’re also looking ahead to the future we’re striving to create — a world where weight stigma no longer exists.
Through the “Imagine a World Without Weight Stigma” Creative Contest, we want to showcase how a future without weight bias looks, feels and impacts our lives — from healthcare and media to workplaces, schools and families. We’re calling on artists, writers and creators of all kinds to share their unique visions through visual art, essays, poetry and prose!
Why Participate in This Contest?
This is an opportunity to express yourself and share your vision for a better, weight stigma-free world—while helping drive OAC’s mission forward. It’s part of our 20th Anniversary celebration that will culminate at the Your Weight Matters National Convention in July 2025, where selected entries will be showcased.
Prizes Include:
1st Place (announced at the Convention):
- Trip to OAC’s Your Weight Matters National Convention, July 24-26, 2025 in Washington, DC (airfare, hotel, registration)
- Submission may be featured on a limited-edition tote bag to support OAC’s mission (if applicable)
- Year-round recognition of your work on OAC’s website, social media and marketing materials
- $500 Grand Prize
2nd and 3rd Place:
- Trip to OAC’s Your Weight Matters National Convention, July 24-26, 2025 in Washington, DC (airfare, hotel, registration)
- Submission may be featured on a limited-edition tote bag to support OAC’s mission (if applicable)
- Year-round recognition of your work on OAC’s website, social media and marketing materials
Other selected works (not limited to finalists) may be featured as part of:
- OAC’s 20th Anniversary celebration at the Convention (onsite displays)
- Limited-edition canvas tote bags to support OAC’s mission
- A digital gallery on our website
- Social media, newsletters and educational materials
- Future advocacy and awareness campaigns
Important Note: Prizes have no cash value and are non-transferable. If a winner is unable to attend the Your Weight Matters National Convention, they forfeit the prize, and it cannot be honored at any other time.
There will be no runner up prizes or benefits aside from what is listed above for “other selected works.”
General Rules & Contest Guidelines
Artist Statement Guidelines
Written Word Guidelines
Visual Art Guidelines
How to Submit Art
Contest Artist Release Statement
Prizes
Contest Timeline
Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL RULES & CONTEST GUIDELINES
Submission Period:
Submissions will be accepted from March 27 – May 27, 2025 at 11:59 pm EST.
Eligibility:
To be eligible, Participants:
- Must be an OAC Community Member (free to join).
- Must reside in the United States.
- Must be 18 years or older.
- Must provide full contact information, age, and relationship to obesity.
- Must not be a contest judge, conference speaker, conference vendor, employee of an OAC Corporate Sponsor, OAC staff member, member of the OAC Board of Directors, or an immediate family member or close friend of any of the parties listed above.
Participates who advance to the final ten (10) will be required to provide proof of age and residency, and a photo for use in social media campaigns.
OAC is proud to host an equal opportunity event and welcomes submissions from individuals of all abilities and backgrounds. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the contest, please contact info@obesityaction.org.
Submission Types:
Participants may submit original works in one of the following two categories. Each submission must be the entrant’s own original work and must follow the specific guidelines outlined below.
1) VISUAL ART:
This category includes two-dimensional and three-dimensional visual media submissions inspired by the theme “Imagine a World Without Weight Stigma.” Submissions should be presented as high-resolution digital files (e.g., JPEG, PNG, or MP4 for videos). All works must be original and created by the participant. Acceptable types of visual art include, but are not limited to:
- Paintings – Can be traditional (oil, acrylic, watercolor, etc.) or digital.
- Drawings – Includes pencil, ink, charcoal, pastels, or other mediums.
- Photography – Original photographs taken and edited (if applicable) by the artist.
- Video – Short-form video art (including animation or time-based visual storytelling) that should not exceed three minutes.
- Photographed 3D Artwork – Includes ceramics, sculptures, or mixed media objects. Entries must be submitted as photographs showing the artwork clearly from at least one angle.
Note: For all visual submissions, the work must be static or recorded—no physical items will be accepted. Upload as JPEG, PNG, or PDF with a minimum resolution of 2MB or higher. For video uploads, please submit video files (.MP4, .MOV) of no longer than three Crop images to focus on the artwork (avoid background objects, frames, or distractions).
Tips for Quality:
- Use high-resolution (300 PPI or higher) images that are not compressed.
- For video, keep the camera steady to avoid shakiness and ensure any sound is audible.
- Show the full artwork (cropped properly, not at an angle, without background clutter).
- Submit clean, straight images or scans.
- Use correct color profiles (e.g., CMYK for print).
- Ensure proper lighting and color accuracy so the image reflects your original work.
- Check for clarity and sharpness before submitting.
2) WRITTEN WORD:
This category welcomes literary submissions inspired by the theme “Imagine a World Without Weight Stigma.” that express creativity, emotion, or perspective. All writing must be original, unpublished (unless otherwise specified), and written by the entrant. Acceptable types of written work include:
- Poems – Any style, form, or subject matter.
- Prose – May include short stories, flash fiction, or creative narratives.
- Essays – Can be personal, reflective, or analytical, with no restriction on style.
Note: Written submissions must be typed and submitted in a common file format (e.g., DOC, DOCX, PDF). Word count must not exceed 1,200 words, and optional illustrations or design elements may be included.
Tips for Quality: Proofread your work for grammar, flow and clarity.
Disclaimer: All visual art and written word submissions will be evaluated within a single, combined category rather than judged separately by medium.
Rules for Submissions:
- Original Work Only: All submissions must be the original work of the participant. While we understand that some creators may use AI as a tool for inspiration or assistance, your entry must reflect your own unique ideas, voice, and perspective. By submitting your work, you confirm that you are the sole creator, that you have full rights to share the content, and that it does not infringe on any third party’s intellectual property rights, including but not limited to copyrights, trademarks, or proprietary content. Any submission found to infringe on the rights of others will result in immediate disqualification. Furthermore, the participant will be held solely responsible for any legal claims or actions brought against OAC as a result of such infringement.
- Number of Entries: Artists may submit up to two entries; however, only one piece will be eligible to win.
- One Household Winner: Multiple members of the same household may enter the contest; however, only one individual per household may be selected as a top 10 finalist or winner.
- Artist Statement: Every submission must include an Artist Statement. For guidance, see the “Artist Statement Guidelines” section.
- Exclusion of Inappropriate Content: Submissions that contain offensive, obscene, discriminatory, or otherwise inappropriate content will be disqualified at the sole discretion of OAC. The OAC reserves the right to remove or disqualify any submission that it deems inconsistent with the values, mission, or guidelines of the contest, without prior notice.
- Submission Deadline: All submissions must be received by the specified deadline. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Contest Artwork Release Statement:
All participants must confirm they have read and agree to be bound by the Contest Artwork Release Statement (see below).
Judging Criteria:
Our panel of judges who will be selected by OAC will score submissions based on the following scale:
| Criteria | Points | Description |
| Creativity & Originality | 25 | The work presents a unique and imaginative interpretation of the theme “Imagine a World WIthout Stigma,” demonstrating innovation and originality. |
| Message & Impact | 25 | The submission effectively conveys a strong message about a world without stigma, inspiring thought, conversation, or change. |
| Personal Reflection & Artist Statement | 20 | The artist statement clearly explains the inspiration behind the work, the artist’s connection to the theme, and the meaning behind it. |
| Technical Quality & Presentation | 20 | The work is well-executed, polished, and demonstrates artistic skill. Submissions should be visually or structurally compelling and follow all submission guidelines. |
| Adherence to Theme | 10 | The piece directly aligns with the contest theme, “Imagine a World Without Stigma,” and effectively expresses its vision. |
Total Possible Points: 100
ARTIST STATEMENT GUIDELINES
Each submission must include an artist statement of 200 words or fewer, which can be entered in the submission form. This is your opportunity to share the story behind your work and connect it to the theme “Imagine a World Without Weight Stigma.” Your statement should help others understand the meaning, inspiration and message behind your piece. What does a world without weight stigma look or feel like to you? How did your own experiences, thoughts or emotions shape what you created? Please note: Judges will consider artist statements just as much as the creative work itself.
HOW TO SUBMIT ART
Use the form on this page. All entries should be submitted as documents, high-quality digital images, videos or scans of the original artwork. Physical pieces do not need to be mailed unless specifically requested by the OAC for display or exhibition purposes. If your work is selected as a finalist or for general display, we will contact you with any additional instructions.
CONTEST ARTIST RELEASE
By submitting an entry to the “Imagine a World Without Weight Stigma” Creative Contest (“Contest”), hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (“OAC”), the Contest participant (“Artist”) acknowledges and agrees to the following terms and conditions:
- Grant of Rights: The Artist hereby grants OAC a non-exclusive, non-revocable, royalty-free license to use, reproduce, and display the submitted artwork (“Artwork”) in both digital and print formats. This includes, but is not limited to, use for advertising, promotional, educational, and any other purposes deemed appropriate by OAC. These rights shall be granted for a perpetual term from the date of submission.
- Ownership and Intellectual Property: The Artist understands, acknowledge, and agrees that submitting Artwork to the Contest does not affect the Artist’s ownership rights. The Artist shall retain all intellectual property rights to their Artwork, and this agreement does not transfer any ownership to OAC.
- Certification of Originality: The Artist certifies that the Artwork is the original creation of the Artist and that the Artist holds all rights, title, and ownership to the Artwork. The Artist affirms that no other individuals or entities have ownership or copyright claims over the Artwork. The Artist confirms that they have not entered into any agreements with any third parties that would conflict with the permissions granted to OAC.
- Public Display and Use: The Artist agrees that OAC may, at its discretion, display the Artwork on its website, social media accounts, promotional materials, or any other platforms deemed appropriate, along side the name and state of domicile of the Artist. This public display may occur indefinitely following the conclusion of the Contest.
- Waiver of Liability: The Artist hereby agrees to release and hold harmless OAC, its officers, directors, employees, and agents from any and all claims, demands, and causes of action arising out of or related to the use of the Artwork as permitted by this agreement.
- Acknowledgment of Release Statement: The undersigned acknowledges and agrees that they have read, understood, and agree to the terms outlined in the Contest and the Contest Artwork Release Statement. The Artist understands the implications of these terms and consent to them fully.
By submitting the Artwork, the Artist consents to and accepts all the terms and conditions outlined above, and in relation to the Contest.
PRIZES
We are excited to honor three finalists whose creative work brings the theme “Imagine a World Without Weight Stigma” to life!
1st Place (announced at the Convention):
- Trip to OAC’s Your Weight Matters National Convention, July 24-26, 2025 in Washington, DC (airfare, hotel, registration)
- Submission may be featured on a limited-edition tote bag to support OAC’s mission (if applicable)
- Year-round recognition of your work on OAC’s website, social media and marketing materials
- $500 Grand Prize
2nd and 3rd Place:
- Trip to OAC’s Your Weight Matters National Convention, July 24-26, 2025 in Washington, DC (airfare, hotel, registration)
- Submission may be featured on a limited-edition tote bag to support OAC’s mission (if applicable)
- Year-round recognition of your work on OAC’s website, social media and marketing materials
Other selected works (not limited to finalists) may be featured as part of:
- OAC’s 20th Anniversary celebration at the Convention (onsite displays)
- Limited-edition canvas tote bags to support OAC’s mission
- A digital gallery on our website
- Social media, newsletters and educational materials
- Future advocacy and awareness campaigns
Important Note: Prizes have no cash value and are non-transferable. If a winner is unable to attend the Your Weight Matters National Convention, they forfeit the prize, and it cannot be honored at any other time.
There will be no runner up prizes or benefits aside from what is listed above for “other selected works.”
CONTEST TIMELINE
Please note this schedule is subject to change.
- March 27, 2025 – The contest opens for submissions.
- May 27, 2025 – Contest closes for submissions and judging begins.
- June 10, 2025 – Top 10 finalists identified by judges. Finalist submissions will move to a social media vote to decide the top 3.
- June 17, 2025 – Top 3 finalists identified and invited to attend the 2025 Your Weight Matters National Convention. All remaining participants will be notified about winners.
- July 24-26, 2025 – OAC’s Your Weight Matters National Convention
The top three finalists, determined by social media voting or the equivalent thereof, will be contacted directly by June 16, 2025, then added to OAC’s website for promotions. All participants will receive an email notification once the finalists are selected. Social media voting will determine the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. The first place submission will be announced at the 2025 Your Weight Matters National Convention.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
Am I eligible to enter the contest?
The contest is open to adults only, ages 18 and up, residing in the United States.
Is the contest open to international artists?
No. At this time, only participants based in the U.S. are eligible to enter and qualify as a finalist.
What can I do if I am unable to upload my photo or video?
If you’re having trouble uploading your photo or video, please double-check the file format and size. Make sure the file meets the contest’s requirements. If the issue persists, please contact OAC at info@obesityaction.org for assistance.
Can I submit anonymously or under a pseudonym?
Unfortunately, no. Anonymous submissions will not be accepted due to the required Artist Release Statement.
What if I don’t identify as someone with obesity but care about the topic—can I still enter?
Definitely! This project is open to anyone who has a story to share, whether you are personally affected by obesity, support a loved one or patient, or simply care about raising awareness and reducing weight stigma.
CONTEST DISCLAIMERS
Eligibility: This contest is open only to legal residents of the United States. Participants must be residing within the United States at the time of entry and throughout the duration of the contest. Entries from individuals residing outside the United States will not be considered.
Compliance with Regulations: This contest is governed by the laws and regulations of the United States. It is not subject to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or any other data protection laws applicable in jurisdictions outside the United States. Participants acknowledge that their personal data will be processed in accordance with U.S. laws and regulations.
Data Use Policy: This contest is intended and marketed exclusively to individuals who are 18 years of age or older. Submissions from individuals under the age of 18 are not permitted. In the event that a minor inadvertently submits an entry, their submission and any associated personal information will be promptly deleted from our records upon discovery.
All personal data collected through the contest is used solely for the purpose of verifying eligibility and determining finalists, and only information necessary to evaluate entries and contact potential winners is collected. This information will not be sold, shared, or disclosed to any third party, except as required by law. OAC is committed to protecting participant privacy and ensuring that all data is handled in accordance with applicable privacy regulations of the states in which participates reside.
Rights to Information Removal: Participants have the right to request the removal or deletion of their personal information from our records. To exercise this right, please contact us using the information provided below.
Data Security: We employ industry-standard security measures to protect the personal information of our participants. However, please be aware that no method of transmission over the internet or method of electronic storage is 100% secure.
Additional Terms: By entering this contest, participants agree to abide by all official rules and decisions made by the contest organizers, which shall be final and binding in all respects. The contest organizers reserve the right to disqualify any participant who violates these terms or engages in any conduct that is deemed unlawful or inappropriate.
Contact Information: For any questions or concerns regarding this contest, please contact the contest organizers at info@obesityaction.org.
Effective Date: This disclaimer is effective as of March 27, 2025.