Whitman County Public Health first introduced their Disconnect to Reconnect social media education campaign in 2024, along with their first annual Art Contest. Aimed at addressing the impact of social media on children across the Palouse and beyond, their collective goal is to educate youth about responsible social media usage, the potential risks of life online, and the importance of balance.

In order to make learning engaging and spread awareness about the importance of this topic, both Whitman County Public Health and Whitman County Library are hosting an art competition for rural Whitman County schools with the theme “Disconnect to Reconnect: Life Beyond Likes.” The contest will be open to youth ages 13-19 who are either enrolled in an area school district, excluding Pullman, or homeschooled. Our hope is that it will inspire creativity in a world buzzing with digital noise!

Submissions are due by March 25, 2025 and can be entered with permission slips at the Whitman County Public Health offices or at any branch location of Whitman County Rural Library District. Once submitted, pieces will be displayed in The Libey Gallery in the Center at the Colfax Library from April 17 through May 19 to allow plenty of time for viewers to cast their votes on their preferred entry. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, April 17 from 6-8 PM, where refreshments will be provided and swag bags for all participants will be distributed.

Voting will take place through April and early May at The Center to decide the top three pieces of our Disconnect to Reconnect show! All artists who enter will receive gift cards, but first place will receive a $250 gift card, second place will receive a $175 gift card, and third place will receive a $100 gift card. Voting will end on May 19 and is open to all Whitman County residents and visitors at The Center.

For itemized information, a printable permission form, and more information about guidelines and prizes, click here. For questions, feel free to reach out to Whitman County Public Health at (509) 397-6280.