Student art contest
The Notre Dame Crucifix Initiative seeks to reinforce the universalism of Catholicism and the internationalism of Notre Dame through an expanding collection of crucifixes from artists around the world. Beyond seeking to draw deeper links between Catholicism and internationalism, we also hope to bring together Catholicism and student research.
That's why we are announcing a competition for students, both undergraduate and graduate, to create crucifixes that could be displayed in classrooms on campus, where they will inspire Notre Dame students for years to come.
Learn about the 2024 contest winners
Sign up for 2026 contest reminders
Submission form for 2026 entries
Contest guidelines
- Submit your crucifix and an artist’s statement on the work (of 50–250 words) to the Office of Mission Engagement in 304 Main Building by March 17, 2026 at 5 p.m. (this is the Tuesday after spring break). The artist statement must include a title for the work and a photo of the piece.
- The material selection is completely open to the student.
- Three-dimensional and two-dimensional submissions are welcome.
- No crucifix should be larger than three feet in any direction.
- Only one submission per student.
- Prize money of no less than $1,000 is expected, with at least $500 for first prize. More than one prize may be granted.
- Students agree to have their works become part of Notre Dame’s permanent collection of classroom crucifixes.
Judging criteria
All entries:
- should be unique and original.
- should be aesthetically impressive.
- should be meaningful (ideally each crucifix tells a story of some kind, for example, about the particular style of crucifix).
- should be durable (they should not require special conservation or maintenance).
- should not include undesirable or illegal materials, such as ivory.
- should not challenge a capacious concept of theological appropriateness.
2025 Student Art Contest Winners
