Calling All Artists! DEEP's Migratory Bird Stamp Contest Begins

A quick drive around Ledyard reveals rolling green hills and misty, sometimes haunting, bodies of water worthy of any artist's attention. And now the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has a contest meant to inspire all those inspired by Ledyard's natural beauty.

DEEP is encouraging artists to enter their waterfowl artwork in the next Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp Art Contest. The winning entry will be featured on the 2014 Connecticut Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp. 

The inaugural contest in 2012 was won by wildlife artist Richard Clifton, whose depiction of three wood ducks was chosen from among 18 entries from artists across the country – from Oregon to Georgia, as well as 11 from Connecticut. Clifton’s painting now graces the 2013 Connecticut Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp.

“The Connecticut Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp Program is a great example of how conservation works – concerned citizens paying into a program that was formed to protect and enhance vital habitat,” said DEEP Deputy Commissioner Susan Whalen. “By state law, funds generated from the sale of Connecticut Duck Stamps can only be used for the development, management, preservation, conservation, acquisition, purchase, and maintenance of waterfowl habitat and wetlands, as well as the purchase and acquisition of recreational rights or interests relating to migratory birds.” 

Contest Details

The contest is open to all artists (including Junior Duck Stamp artists), regardless of residence, age, or experience. Artwork may be in any full-color medium, including acrylic, oil, colored pencil, and watercolor. Images that include a Connecticut scene or landmark are preferred. 

Entries will be judged on originality, artistic composition, anatomical accuracy, general rendering, and suitability for reproduction. Entries must be received in person or postmarked on or before March 15, 2013, to be eligible. 

Entries should be sent to: 

CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Attn: Migratory Game Bird Program, 391 Route 32, North Franklin, CT 06254

Full contest rules, judging criteria, and an official entry certificate are available on the DEEP web site by calling the DEEP Wildlife Division’s Franklin office at 860-642-7239.