One Map to Rule Them All?

Posted By: Mike Seidel Annual Conference,

Making maps for a living is a dream come true, isn’t it? It’s almost like living in a fantasy…well, for some of us more than others probably, but if you’re like me making maps really brings out the kid if you. And speaking of kids, it’s time to announce the return of the insanely popular Youth Map Contest at the 2025 WLIA Annual Conference!  

Do you know a youth interested in drawing maps? Help spread the word and encourage them to participate! Submissions may be mailed before February 19, 2025, or entered on site at the WLIA Annual Conference February 26-27, 2025. 

Submission Rules 

  • A hard copy of the map and printed release form should be mailed to the address below. 

  • We strongly encourage the original work to be mailed in, but if a hard copy cannot be sent, please upload a high-resolution digital copy at the end of the registration process and it will be printed for you. 

  • If you cannot complete the registration form, mail your hard copy map and release form and a WLIA member will complete the registration for you. 

Eligibility 

  • All youth ages 17 and under are encouraged to participate! 

Medium 

  • Maps must be manually or digitally drawn and printed on one side of paper. There is no size restriction, but work should lay flat when unfolded. 

  • Examples of acceptable medium include paint, markers, pens, pencils, crayons or similar. Digital work must be original. 

  • On the back side, clearly print your name and age. 

Not permitted 

  • Kids are encouraged to be creative with their topic of choice, but the use of stock photos or graphics such as clipart are not allowed. 

  • Avoid 3D medium that protrude too far from the paper. 

  • Do not use inappropriate language or include sensitive information about yourself or others. 

Awards 

  • Winners to be announced and Amazon gift cards (up to $25) awarded in each age group following the WLIA Annual Conference ending February 28, 2025. 

Mail Entries to: 

WLIA
PO Box 389
Wild Rose, WI 54984 

If you would like your map returned, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope (or mailing tube, etc. with adequate postage) with the entry. Entries without return postage will not be returned. 


Need inspiration? Check out last year’s fantastic Kid’s Maps:

2024 Annual Conference Kid's Maps

Of course, map contests (and fantasy maps in general) aren’t just for kids so make sure to submit your own John Nelson inspired creations today! Need some help getting those creative juices flowing? Check out John’s extraordinary tutorials on creating Tolkien Style Maps in a GIS. They’re simply precious…