BEND, Ore. – Deschutes County Elections is inviting young artists to help commemorate America’s 250th birthday with creativity and civic pride. Local K-12 students are encouraged to design the official “I Voted” sticker that will be distributed during Oregon’s 2026 statewide primary and general elections.
Celebrating Democracy Through Art
The contest gives students a chance to see their artwork featured by county elections and shared with voters across the region. Elementary school winners (grades K–5) will see their design showcased on the cover of the May 19, 2026 Primary Election Voters’ Pamphlet. Middle and high school winners (grades 6–12) will have their art displayed on the cover of the November 3, 2026 General Election Voters’ Pamphlet.
Beyond the pamphlets, the winning designs will also appear on Deschutes County Elections outreach materials, promotional campaigns, and even on display throughout the Deschutes County Services Building in downtown Bend.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about civic participation while showing off their creativity,” election officials said in announcing the contest. “We want young people to know their voices matter—even before they’re old enough to cast a ballot.”
Contest Timeline
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Submission Deadline: January 31, 2026
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Winner Announced: February 2026
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Primary Election: May 19, 2026 (elementary winner featured)
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General Election: November 3, 2026 (middle/high school winner featured)
How to Enter
Students may submit their completed artwork by mail, email, or in person:
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In Person: Deschutes County Clerk’s Office, 1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 202, Bend
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By Mail: Deschutes County Clerk’s Office, “I Voted” Sticker Contest, PO Box 6005, Bend, OR 97708
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By Email: artcontest@deschutescounty.gov
Entry forms and design templates are available online through the Clerk’s Office or can be picked up in person.
Design Guidelines
To ensure fairness and creativity, the county has set the following rules for submissions:
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Stickers must be circular and able to be resized to fit a 2-inch diameter.
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Only hand-rendered artwork will be accepted. Digital or AI-generated work is not permitted.
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Designs must be drawn on white paper.
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All submissions should remain nonpartisan—no political party references or symbols.
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Students are encouraged to use red, white, and blue as the primary colors.
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Designs must be original. Clip art, copyrighted images, or reused artwork will not be accepted.
Inspiring Civic Engagement
The “I Voted” sticker has long served as a symbol of civic participation, worn proudly by voters on Election Day. For many, it is both a personal reminder of their role in democracy and a public encouragement for others to vote.
By asking students to design this year’s sticker, Deschutes County is blending civic education with artistic expression. The contest not only sparks creativity but also provides a hands-on way for students to connect with elections and the responsibilities of citizenship.
Parents and teachers are encouraged to use the contest as a conversation starter about voting, elections, and civic duty. Local schools have also been asked to help spread the word to ensure broad participation across the county.
A Special Year for Democracy
The 2026 elections will carry added significance as the nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence. Deschutes County officials say the contest is a fitting way to honor the milestone, by engaging the next generation in shaping how civic pride is displayed.
“This isn’t just about a sticker,” county staff emphasized. “It’s about showing students they can play a role in civic life and celebrating democracy in a way that feels personal and creative.”
Looking Ahead
When voters head to the polls in May and November of 2026, many will walk away with a sticker that symbolizes more than their vote—it will represent the imagination of a local student and the shared values of the community.
For the young artists who enter, it’s a chance to make history in a year when the nation reflects on its democratic journey. For Deschutes County voters, it’s a reminder that democracy is strengthened when every generation takes part—whether by designing art, casting ballots, or engaging in civic dialogue.
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