Nonprofit Initiative

Amplifying Asian American youth voices through art.

Asian Blooming Artists is launching the inaugural Asian American Youth Art Competition for North Carolina students ages 15-19, culminating in a public showcase during AAPI Heritage Month.

About Asian Blooming Artists

Founded by Carter Yao, a North Carolina high school student, Asian Blooming Artists is a nonprofit-led initiative focused on youth expression, cultural understanding, and community connection through visual art.

Mission

To create meaningful platforms where Asian American youth can share their stories, strengthen artistic literacy, and inspire civic dialogue through creativity.

Core Values

  • Representation of diverse Asian American voices
  • Community participation through accessible public voting
  • Foster cross-cultural understanding
  • Youth leadership and volunteer-driven service

Inaugural Asian American Youth Art Competition

Open to Asian American youth across North Carolina from all school types.

Who

Asian American youth artists, ages 15-19, from communities and schools statewide.

What

Original paintings, watercolors, and small sculptures. This years theme: Peace.

How

A professional jury selects finalists, followed by public voting to determine multiple award tiers.

Why

Asian Americans make up more than 25% of Cary's population. This showcase amplifies youth voices through art during AAPI Heritage Month and invites the public to participate in community-centered cultural celebration.

Event Timeline

  1. Submission Window

    Refer to the official 2026 poster for exact opening and closing dates.

  2. Jury Review

    Professional judges review eligible entries after the submission deadline.

  3. Showcase + Voting

    Finalist exhibition and public voting period follow the jury selection phase.

  4. Results

    Winners are announced after public voting closes.

Official Competition Poster

Use the official poster for the finalized dates, deadlines, and event details for this cycle.

Open Official Poster (PDF)

Public Voting

Vote once using your email and the finalist reference number (example: ABA-0001).

Get Involved

Support youth artists and help this celebration grow into an annual community tradition.

Submit Art

Eligible youth artists can submit original peace-themed work for jury selection.

Volunteer

Join setup, welcome guests, and assist exhibit operations during showcase week.

Sponsor

Provide funding, materials, or awards while engaging directly with the community and gaining positive local publicity through support of youth arts.

Attend & Vote

Visit the showcase in May, celebrate finalists, and cast public votes.

Contact the Organizing Team

For all communication, submissions questions, partnerships, or event inquiries, email us directly.

Email

asianbartists@gmail.com

Please include your name, subject, and any relevant artwork or event details in your email.