Cleveland Sews 'Design the Vote' Contest

Cleveland Sews invites artists countywide to participate in their 'Design the Vote' contest, creating original artwork that inspires civic engagement and promotes democratic participation. The winning design will be selected through community voting and printed on tote bags distributed at voter outreach events throughout Cuyahoga County. This contest is part of Cleveland Sews' mission as an education and workforce sewing program that uses upcycled materials to create opportunities for community members. The contest winner receives $500 plus the opportunity to see their work displayed across the city on reusable bags. Second and third place winners earn $250 and have their designs featured during live screenprinting demonstrations at community events. The selection process itself serves as a practice in democratic engagement, with community members voting to choose the winner. Everyone who votes will receive a free tote bag with the winning design. The contest is open to all Cuyahoga County residents, including incarcerated individuals and youth in crisis residential facilities. After winners are selected, Cleveland Sews will engage in 'social manufacturing' - printing bags in community with the artist's work and distributing them at various county events, creating civic spaces for participation.

Submission Guidelines

Original artwork designs must have up to four colors and meet specific size and file requirements listed on contest page. Must also submit a one-color version of the design.

How to Apply

1. Step 1: Create original artwork design with up to four colors that inspires civic engagement

2. Step 2: Review specific size and file requirements on the contest page

3. Step 3: Submit both full-color design and one-color version by September 9, 2025

Application & Contact

Contact: Cleveland Sews, contact through Sharie Renee (founder and director)

Source: https://signalcleveland.org/cleveland-sews-design-for-civic-engagement/