The State Botanical Garden at the University of Georgia is conducting a statewide art competition sponsored by the J.A. and H.G. Woodruff, Jr. Charitable Trust to recognize student talent in Georgia and create items for the garden's gift shop.

The winning artist will receive $1,000. Additional awards of $500, $250 and certificates of merit are also available. Artwork awarded cash prizes will become the property of the State Botanical Garden and used to create signature items only sold in the garden's gift shop. The competition, in its 10th year, is open to Georgia students in ninth grade through college. The deadline for submissions is Dec. 3 at 5 p.m.

Artwork must be two-dimensional and no larger than 24 inches x 36 inches. Acceptable media includes pencil, pen and ink, pain, photography, collage and computer-enhanced graphics. One-color designs are welcome and needed to create affordable gift shop products. The artwork does not need to be framed, but it should be signed.

Entrants should keep in mind that the goal is to create items for the State Botanical Garden gift shop such as totes, stationery, T-shirts, journals, scarves and more.

Submissions may mailed to Connie Cottingham, 2450 South Milledge Ave., Athens, Ga., 30605. For more information, call 706-542-6014 or see the complete guidelines and entry form at botgarden.uga.edu.

A unit of the Office of the Vice President for Public Service and Outreach at the University of Georgia, the State Botanical Garden of Georgia provides the general public as well as UGA faculty, staff and students opportunities for recreation, events, research and learning through its natural areas, display gardens and building spaces.