Just in time for Black History Month (February), the Wadadli Youth Pen is giving youths in Antigua and Barbuda the chance to be recognised for their creativity and vision. 

The Wadadli Youth Pen Prize writing competition returns with a Black History Month challenge. With an expanded age range, a visual arts component, and the intriguing Black and Beautiful theme, organisers are hoping to attract even more entries than the competition’s initial 2004-2006 run. This is part of a series of activities designed to focus attention on ‘Image and Identity’ throughout the month of February, Black History Month. The organisers, including the Best of Books, the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, and a small grouping of Antiguan artists/artistes, hope to spark conversation and expression on contemporary issues related to our African heritage including how we see ourselves and what informs that.

The competition is open to residents of Antigua and Barbuda 35 years and younger, and the challenge is to create words or images guided by the theme Black and  Beautiful.  Submit before 5 Feb 2010 for a chance to win.  Prizes will be given for the best visual art and creative writing entries in the 18-35, 13-17, and 0-12 age categories; additionally one writer and artist will earn top honours overall.

Writers, take note: you may submit one piece in any genre as long as it is authentic/original, creative, your best effort, consistent with the theme, and 500 words or less. Type entries double-spaced on 8 ½ x 11 paper, and submit to wadadlipen@yahoo.com, P.O. Box 2717, or the Best of Books bookstore no later than 5 Feb 10.

Artists, meanwhile, are encouraged to submit in any colour medium including paints, pastels, or water colour; and may incorporate collage elements. Submissions should be no smaller than 17 x 24 and no larger than 24 x 36. For the visual arts competition only hard copy entries will be accepted and these can be dropped off at the Best of Books no later than 5 Feb 10.  Name, age, school, and contact information-phone and/or email-should be typed on a separate sheet of paper and submitted with all entries. 

Other planned activities include a series of thought-provoking media discussions and the ‘Africa: Our Story’ trivia competition leading up to a 22-26 Feb week of activities.  The winner will be awarded during the arts showcase – Word Up! 2010 – which concludes that week of activities. Throughout the week there will also be a lecture and art exhibition.