ESCANABA — The Daily Press is partnering with the Bonifas Arts Center to support young artists, the Bonifas and newspapers in schools.

Youth from kindergarten age through their senior year of high school — homeschooled students included — are invited to participate in The Bonifas Art Chronicles Art Contest. Entries are being accepted now through Jan. 31 for the contest. Entry forms will be published in the Daily Press periodically throughout the contest period and can also be picked up at the Daily Press office, at 600 Ludington St., or the Bonifas Arts Center, at 700 1st Ave. South, in Escanaba during regular business hours.

Original artwork and completed entry forms should be brought to the Daily Press. There is no cost to enter the contest. All subjects and mediums are welcome, though the Daily Press reserves the right to disqualify offensive entries.

“Whatever drawing their little heart desires they can enter to win,” said Daily Press Publisher Sarah Greenlund.

Beginning Feb. 10, the pieces submitted to the contest will be reproduced in upcoming issues of the Daily Press during a voting period. Like the Daily Press’ Pet Idol Contest — which takes place annually and features pets from across the Daily Press’ readership area — readers will be able to vote for their favorite artwork and artists for 50 cents per vote. The proceeds will be split 50/50 between the Bonifas and the Daily Press’ Newspapers in Education program, which provides newspapers to classrooms across the readership area.

During the voting period, the original pieces will be on display at the Bonifas for anyone who wishes to see the artwork in person.

Any parents who are uncomfortable with their child’s name being published with their entry may request a number be assigned to their submission instead. A checkbox to request a number is included on the entry form.

In March, an awards ceremony will take place for the winners. One winner will be named from each age group — grades K-4, 5-8, and 9-12. A number of prizes from local business and organizations will be awarded to the winners, such as passes to the water park at the Island Resort & Casino, goodies from Blades Bait & Tackle, puzzles from the Escanaba’s recreation department, and more.

For more information, call the Daily Press at 906-786-2021.