2025 ArtDash Jr. Theme
“The Place I Wish Existed”
"Explore the Colors, Textures, and Flavors of Gourmet Cuisine"


Theme Overview
In 2025, ArtDash Junior invites young artists from K–5th grade to explore the wonderful world of imagination with our theme, “The Place I Wish Existed.” This theme encourages children to dream, invent fantastical worlds, and bring their own magical places to life through drawing and painting. It’s a fun chance to let their creativity and ideas shine!
Use the following prompts to spark your imagination. They are here to help you think about the theme from different angles and explore your own unique ideas. Think about how each prompt connects with your dreams, favorite stories, or the magical places you imagine in your mind.
Artistic Exploration Guide
STEP 1: Imagining Your Place
Your “Place I Wish Existed” can be anything you dream of—a world that solves a real problem you see in daily life, or a purely fantastical place born from your imagination. Think about what makes this place special. Is it a peaceful garden floating in the clouds, a city where everyone can talk to animals, or a magical library full of flying books?
Guiding Questions:
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What is the purpose of your place? Does it solve a problem, bring joy, or simply exist for fun?
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What makes your place different from the real world?
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How can you show its uniqueness using shapes, colors, and details?
Suggestions:
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Sketch the overall scene first to capture the main ideas.
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Use bright, bold colors or unusual textures to make your world feel alive.
STEP 2: Adding Characters or Visitors
Including characters can make your imaginary place feel lived-in and relatable. They could be children, animals, magical creatures, or even yourself exploring the place. Their actions and expressions help tell the story of how people (or creatures) interact with this world.
Guiding Questions:
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Who lives or visits your place?
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How do they feel when they are there—happy, curious, excited?
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How can you show movement or interaction to make the scene dynamic?
Suggestions:
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Draw a character exploring or enjoying the place to add life and emotion.
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Include small details, like gestures, expressions, or playful interactions.
STEP 3: Highlighting the Environment
The environment is the heart of your creation. Think about landscapes, buildings, plants, or magical objects. Every element can tell part of the story and show the personality of your world.
Guiding Questions:
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What makes this place unique—its shapes, colors, or special features?
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Are there natural elements, inventions, or magical objects that define it?
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How can you create depth and space to make viewers feel they could step inside?
Suggestions:
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Focus on details that make your place memorable, like unusual architecture, glowing plants, or whimsical skies.
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Experiment with perspective and layering to create a sense of depth.
STEP 4: Personal Touch & Imagination
Your artwork is a reflection of your imagination and experiences. Even in fantastical worlds, you can include elements inspired by things you love or moments that are meaningful to you.
Guiding Questions:
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Is there a favorite memory, dream, or story that inspires your place?
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How can your personal experiences make your place feel authentic and magical?
Suggestions:
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Add small personal details, like favorite colors, patterns, or objects.
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Combine real-world inspiration with imagination to create a unique and original scene.
Final Note: Bringing Your Place to Life
As you create, remember your goal is to make viewers feel they could step into your world. Use colors, details, and composition to express the magic, emotion, and purpose of your place. Whether solving a real-world need or exploring pure imagination, let your creativity shine and make your place unforgettable.