Paint Horse Journal kicks off 60th anniversary cover art contest
Calling all artists! In honor of the Paint Horse Journal’s 60th anniversary in 2026, the magazine is looking for artwork to star on its Winter 2026 cover. It’s a throwback to the Journal’s early issues, which frequently featured artwork covers that depicted Paint Horses and the Western lifestyle.
The Paint Horse Journal 60th Anniversary Cover Art Contest kicks off in March, and artists are invited to submit their original work for consideration by the May 15, 2026, deadline.
Enter Now
Cover art contest submissions should follow these guidelines:
- Portrait orientation, 9” x 12” (minimum) to 16” x 20” (maximum)
- Final artwork dimensions: 8.25” x 10.5”
- Original artwork, with no AI generation
- Theme: Western lifestyle and/or the heritage or legacy of APHA and the American Paint Horse
- Edge-to-edge design, with room to incorporate the Paint Horse Journal masthead
- Any 2D medium (drawing or painting) is acceptable
- No text included in the artwork
- Must feature an American Paint Horse(s)
- Multiple entries are encouraged
The winning entry receives:
- $500 cash prize
- Artwork featured on the cover of the Winter 2026 Paint Horse Journal
- Artist profile in the Winter 2026 Paint Horse Journal
- Social media showcase
- Cover design featured on PHJ x PH Barn Door merchandise
Enter: forms.apha.com/team/apha/phj-cover-art-contest
More information: files.apha.com/s/o/PHJ_Cover_Art_Contest
Questions? Email jhein@apha.com
##
[Reprinting all or part of this news release is permitted. Please credit the Paint Horse Journal and provide a link provided back to apha.com.]
About APHA
The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second-largest international equine breed association. Since it was founded in 1962, APHA has registered more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories. APHA promotes, preserves and provides meaningful experiences with Paint Horses. Learn more at apha.com.