MTA launches third annual Earth Day art contest for Maryland youth; entries due March 13

BALTIMORE (WBFF) — The Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) has launched its third annual Earth Day Art Competition, inviting young artists from across the state to submit designs that emphasize sustainability and the role of public transit in connecting communities.

The winning artworks will be displayed on a specially wrapped bus, turning it into a mobile exhibition of the artists’ visions for a sustainable transit future.

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The competition is open to Maryland youth aged 5 to 17, with a submission deadline of March 13, 2026.

The theme for this year’s contest is “Public Transportation is a Climate Solution,” encouraging participants to reflect on how transit systems can contribute to environmental sustainability.

“Creating a sustainable, equitable and inclusive public transit system for future generations can only be achieved by engaging our youth today,” said Maryland Transit Administrator Holly Arnold, via press release. “This competition provides an opportunity for youth to share their vision for creating a better transit system that moves Maryland forward.”

In addition to being featured on the wrapped bus, the selected finalists’ artwork will also be displayed in the Maryland State Department of Education Superintendent’s Student Gallery on Baltimore Street, offering further recognition for the young artists.

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For those interested in participating, submission details can be found on the MTA’s website at http://www.mta.maryland.gov/EarthDayArt.

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