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Mural Stories Writing Contest

Paint the page with your stories! We have partnered with Mankind Murals to host a writing contest inspired by Mansfield’s collection of outdoor murals. 

About the Contest

The Mansfield Richland County Public Library and Mankind Murals are excited to announce the Mural Stories Writing Contest. Mansfield has a rich tapestry of vibrant murals adorning its streets, each telling a unique story of our community’s history, culture, and aspirations. We invite you to become a part of this living narrative by putting your creative writing skills to the test.

Contest Rules

All ages are welcome to enter. Contest entries will be judged in three age groups: children, teens, and adults. A panel of judges will choose one winner in each category to receive a $25 gift card. Additional entries may be published in our Mural Stories Book, which will be created after the event.

Additionally, participants who wrote about one of the three library garage murals (see below) may have the opportunity to share their story at our Mural Stories Event on Sat. July 13 at 10:30 in the Main Library parking lot (corner of Mulberry and W. Third.) 

Submissions for the writing contest are open from May 1 to June 15. One entry per person only, please
For more information on how to participate and contest rules, please visit
mankindmurals.org

NOTE: All creative writing will be screened for appropriateness before being considered for the event and publication of any kind. We may need to make minor edits for readability, but we’ll always respect your creative vision. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact director@mankindmurals.org.

Age Groups

*Please note that if you are under the age of 18, you must get permission to submit content from a parent or legal guardian. *

  • Youth (Grades 1-6) 
  • Teen (Grades 7 -12)
  • Adults (Age 18+)

Creative Writing Categories

The word limit for your submission is 1,000 words or less or two single-spaced pages. The recommended poetry word limit is 200 words or less.

  • Fiction
  • Poetry
  • Memoir/ Autobiographical
  • Monologue/ Short Play
  • Non-fiction / Essay

Take Inspiration From Your Library

Garage Murals

A Magical scene with bookshelves, full of classic books. A bean stalk, dragon, hot air balloon, castle, and pirate ship are painted around it. Art by Allison Pence.

Once Upon a Library Allison Pence

A colorful cloud of imagination with story book items floating around a boy painted with great detail. Painted by Demetrius Howell

Right at the Tip of Your Mind by Demetrius Howell

An open book with a jungle scene coming out of it. There are lions, giraffes, cheetahs, koalas, elephants, monkeys, and zebras enjoying the nature at sunset. Painted by Robin Shoup Wilson.

Wild About Books by Robin Shoup Wilson 

Take Inspiration From Your Community

Want to write about a different mural in Mansfield? Click here for images, a location map, and artist details.