2026 Bus Art Contest

The Williamsburg Area Transit Authority and CultureFix are calling on local artists to help bring history to life through their Bus Art Contest! In honor of our nation’s 250th anniversary, this year’s theme, “Spirit of 1776,” commemorates American Independence and Virginia’s role in shaping the nation’s history.

Artists are invited to submit original designs inspired by this milestone moment in history. Three winning artists will each receive a $500 check prize, and their artwork will be professionally produced and showcased on WATA buses. These rolling works of art will travel throughout the Historic Triangle, giving thousands of riders and community members the chance to experience local creativity every day.

Thank you to everyone who submitted to the contest! Winners and the official unveiling of the bus artwork to come throughout April 2026.

WATA BUS ART CONTEST 2026 TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Community Voting

Help us choose the Aspiring Artist (Under 18) winner! Local young artists have submitted designs inspired by “Spirit of 1776,” celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Now it’s time for the community to pick a favorite!

Voting Guidelines

Designs will be judged based on how well they reflect the contest theme and clearly connect to the “Spirit of 1776.” Submissions should be creative and convey a clear message that viewers can easily understand. Artwork should also be engaging and uplifting, creating a positive experience for passengers and the public who see the bus in service.

How Will The Art Fit On The Bus?

The artwork shown here appears exactly as it was submitted by the artists. Once a design is selected, it will be professionally resized and adapted so it fits beautifully on the bus wrap.

Are The Amateur and Professional Categories Going To Be Voted On Publicly?

The Amateur and Professional categories will not be part of the public vote. Winners in those categories will be selected by the WATA Board of Directors and a panel of art and subject experts from across the Historic Triangle.

Please Vote Fairly

We encourage everyone to vote thoughtfully and fairly. Our goal is to keep this part of the contest fun, positive, and supportive of the talented young artists who participated.

Aspiring (Under 18) Submissions

1. Maggie, Age 10

Name: American Words The Meaning Behind The Art: "Freedom and our country."
2. Aubrie, Age 9

Name: 250 Years YoungThe Meaning Behind the Art: "My artwork is a celebration of 250 years of America. It is commemorative of the rich history and culture of the United States and all the differen
3. Cora, Age 9

Name: 1776 to Now The Meaning Behind the Art: "Patrick Henry was from Virginia and fought for America's freedom from England."
4. Emily, Age 11

Name: George's Country The Meaning Behind the Art: "George Washington played a big role in helping develop and create America. By drawing the American flag, it also shows the original 13 colonies. The United States started with the 13 colonies, if they didnt exist, America wouldn't be here. George Washington should be recognized and praised for his work. We should be giving him a thank you for being able to give us the ability to have this 250th anniversary. George Washington, the father of our country helped create and represent America."
5. Francesca, Age 14

Name: Free For All The Meaning Behind the Art: "The art is a depiction of a parade celebrating the drafting of the Declaration of Independence."
6. Genevieve, Age 11

Name: Arts of the Revolution The Meaning Behind the Art: "The "Sword, Pen, and Voice" of the American Revolution represent the essential combination of military force, intellectual justification, a
7. Julia, Age 7

Name: Symbols of the Commonwealth Meaning Behind The Art: "The dogwood flower, the cardinal, and the "we [heart}" Virginia bring together the celebration of the nation's 250th birthday."
8. Justice, Age 7

Name: The Spirit of 1776 The Meaning Behind the Art: "Independence Day. America’s Freedom."
9. Katye, Age 10

Name: The Anniversary of 1776
10. Maelys, Age 9

Name: Water
11. Natani, Age 10

Name: Celebrating New Life The Meaning Behind the Art: "Celebrating 250 years and new beginnings with flowers."
12. Russell, Age 10

Name: America the Great The Meaning Behind the Art: "Even if you don't want to celebrate a holiday you can still have fun."
13. Ryder, Age 11

Name: The Traveling Spirit of 1776
14. Felicity

Thank you to everyone who submitted to the contest! Winners and the official unveiling of the bus artwork to come throughout April 2026.

Questions

Community Voting

Aspiring (Under 18) Submissions

1. Maggie, Age 10

2. Aubrie, Age 9

3. Cora, Age 9

4. Emily, Age 11

5. Francesca, Age 14

6. Genevieve, Age 11

7. Julia, Age 7

8. Justice, Age 7

9. Katye, Age 10

10. Maelys, Age 9

11. Natani, Age 10

12. Russell, Age 10

13. Ryder, Age 11

14. Felicity

2026 Bus Art Contest Community Vote