FRANÇAIS
The Beyond the Book Art Contest is a chance to showcase creativity by taking inspiration from a readers favourite Forest of Reading nominees. Whether they are inspired by a favourite character, a magical scene (or theme), or lessons from these titles, we invite readers to showcase that through their artwork.
A jury selects 10 finalists to be displayed in-person at the Forest of Reading Festival in May. Readers can see the art, and vote for their favourite piece at the Festival, and the winner is announced after the Festival wraps.
Submissions for 2026 will open November 1st, 2025 and close April 15th, 2026.
What a great program idea to incorporate with your readers early and let the creativity build throughout the school year.
Q: How do you want us to submit our artwork?
A: Please submit your work as a PDF, JPG, or PNG using our google form.
Please don’t send us the original artwork!
Please rename the file to include the artist’s name and school, for example: “Gemma – Mapleview Public School.jpg”
In your email, make sure to include:
- The artist’s name
- School/library
- A contact person’s email address
- Which program and book your submission relates to
- All submissions should be signed with the artist’s name and school or institution in the bottom right corner.
Q: Can I submit digital art?
A: Yes, of course! We want to see you get creative however feels best for you. You can paint, draw, knit, sculpt, take photos, sing a song– any imagery related to the Forest of Reading is encouraged as is the spirit of reading enjoyment. We invite you to go beyond the book and imagine new possibilities or alternative endings. Let your creativity run wild!
PLEASE NOTE: We will not be accepting art made using AI for this year’s contest. If the judges suspect AI was used, your submission may not be considered.
Q: Can I submit something I made with a friend?
A: Individual and/or group submissions will both be accepted.
Q: Is there a limit on how many pieces we can submit?
A: No! Submit as many pieces as you feel inspired to create!
Number of Prizes: 1
Prize: One winning artist will receive Forest of Reading merchandise from The Library Marketplace (Value: $150).
Submissions: Please email submissions with images as PNG or JPG to hchevreau@accessola.com. Be sure to include the school/library name, the artist’s name, a contact person who can be reached if a winner is selected, and the 2026 nominated title that the artwork is inspired by. All submissions should be signed with the artist’s name and their school or institution in the bottom right corner.
Deadline: April 15, 2026.
Please Note: The winner grants permission for the Ontario Library Association to use the submission for any purpose related to the Forest of Reading program.
Congratulations to our 2025 Winner!
Congratulations to our 10 finalists for 2025
For more information, please contact forest@accessola.com
