Manchester Arts Commission holding poster contest celebrating Manchester’s 180th birthday

Photo/Manchester Economic Development Office

MANCHESTER, NH โ€“ The Manchester Arts Commission is issuing an open call for artists and graphic designers for a City of Manchester poster design contest.

The Manchester Arts Commission invites artists and graphic designers to submit original poster designs celebrating two historic milestones in 2026: the City of Manchesterโ€™s 180th anniversary and the United Statesโ€™ 250th anniversary.

This is a unique opportunity to capture the spirit, history, and future of Manchester through bold and creative visual storytelling. We encourage submissions that reflect civic pride, cultural vibrancy, as well as the communityโ€™s connection to both local and national history.

Join us in commemorating Manchesterโ€™s past, present, and future through art.

Submission Details:

  • Open to all artists and graphic designers
  • Original artwork only
  • Designs should be suitable for high-quality print reproduction
  • Artists may submit more than one design

Selection Process:

  • Winning designs will be selected by the Manchester Arts Commission in June 2026.
  • Submissions are due by Sunday, May 31st.

Awards & Recognition:

Selected posters will be professionally printed and sold in limited quantities. Proceeds from poster sales will directly support the ongoing work and public art initiatives of the Manchester Arts Commission. Winning artist will receive $250, runner-up to receive $180, both will have their work featured as part of the Cityโ€™s official celebration of these milestone anniversaries.

How to Submit:

To ensure the highest quality for professional printing and reproduction, all submissions must meet the following specifications:

  • Dimensions: Standard Lithograph size (18″ x 24″)


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