Artwork Design Contest

Your artwork could go on an ocean adventure aboard Exploration Vessel Nautilus!

Students ages five to eighteen (5-18) can submit artwork to be considered for the official Nautilus Expedition Season Stickers and Patch. The official patch and seasons stickers will be worn and displayed by members of the Corps of Exploration during our annual exploration cruises and represent the expedition season for the team.

Submit by February 1, 2026!

Credit

Ocean Exploration Trust

New for 2026: The Artwork Contest has TWO divisions: Original Artwork or AI Assisted Artwork. Both divisions must fit in a round template, address the challenge below, and include "E/V Nautilus", "2026", and "Pacific Ocean". Participants can only submit one design, either an Original or AI Assisted. 

The 2026 Artwork Contest is now OPEN! To submit a design for either division, please use the appropriate link. Deadline is February 1, 2026

Use this link to submit an Original Artwork Design

Use this link to submit an AI Assisted Artwork Design

Challenge: Exploration can mean a lot of things: discovery, learning, curiosity, teamwork, or all of the above! Ahead of the 2026 E/V Nautilus expedition season, we’re asking YOU to imagine and create a mission design that represents the spirit of exploring the deep ocean. Whether you're inspired by amazing sea creatures, innovative underwater technologies, or the many different people who make exploration possible, show us your vision of what it means to boldly go where few have gone before to understand the planet.