Students in grades 6 through 12 who live in Norwood or Telluride are eligible to enter the Ah Haa School's youth art awards contest. Now in its fifth year, the contest celebrates the creative talents of young local and regional artists by awarding first place prizes to artists in three categories: grades 6 and 7; grades 8 through 10; and grades 11 through 12. Winners will receive a $150 gift certificate for tuition and materials to any Ah Haa class (including adult classes) and a gift certificate to frame a piece of art from Gallerie Framing. A grand prize winner will receive free tuition and materials for a class of their choice plus a solo show at Gallerie Framing.

Last year's grand prize winner, Ian Fallenius, will have a show of his work at Gallerie Framing in December.

Winners will also be featured in the Ah Haa class catalog and in local newspapers after they are announced at the Dia de los Muertos and Ah Haa Birthday Party on Thursday, Nov. 2 from 4 to 7 p.m.

This year, the Ah Haa School turns sweet 16 at its birthday party and has enhanced the event by pairing it with the Mexican holiday, Day of the Dead. Rather than a sad holiday, this day celebrates loved ones who have died. Art is one way to remember those we love who have passed away, and Ah Haa will accept youth art that is inspired by this theme, though it is not required.

"Because the Dia de los Muertos celebration coincides with the Youth Art Awards, we would like to encourage participants to research this wonderful holiday and create art in line with the theme," said Ah Haa's Jennifer Heflin. "While this is not a requirement for entering or winning the competition, it would be great to see a few pieces that coincide with the holiday."

As well as any subject matter, art will be accepted in almost any medium, from photography to painting and including language arts or dramatic work. Primarily Ah Haa is seeking young artists who are inspired to be creative and excited about making art.

In addition to their artistic submission, students are asked to complete a written application, and this will be given greater consideration this year.

"We are looking for originality in the entries, but also a strong desire to win the award," said Heflin. "There will be more emphasis this year on how students answer the application, and students will be judged with their peers. It's an exciting opportunity for a young creative person."

To enter the contest, students must submit three pieces of art in the same medium or different media: three paintings or one photo, one poem and one sculpture, for example. Art from school is acceptable, as is art made at home or for an Ah Haa class. Applications can be picked up at Ah Haa and are due at the school by Monday, Oct. 23, by 5 p.m. For more information call Ah Haa at 728-3886.