Discover Articulation Challenge
What do you think of when you think of art?
Do you see the Mona Lisa or maybe a painting by Van Gogh? But do you think of an album cover, film poster or that mural to your football team? The Discover Articulation Challenge invites students to talk about a piece of art that interests them, sharing their thoughts and original approach to the wide world of art.
It doesn’t have to be a traditional style painting or sculpture, you can choose anything from architecture, photographs, sculptures or installations to graffiti and street art!
Prefer to be creative?
You don’t have to use a PowerPoint presentation if that’s not your style, get creative and present your piece as a poem or spoken word piece. Or you could even create your own artwork as part of your presentation.
As long as you tell us your opinions and demonstrate your research on your chosen piece– how you present it is up to you!
So what is Discover Articulation Challenge and who can take part?
The competition is for Key Stage 4 students and is closely linked to the National Gallery’s Articulation Prize for 16-19 year olds. Students submit a 2-3 minute film of themselves speaking about a piece of art, architecture or artefact of their choice. You can enter in pairs or as an individual. Judges from the University of Leeds and the National Gallery then view each film, looking at content, structure, delivery and the speaker’s original approach and unique potential. They will choose eight entrants to take part in our summer final on campus at the University of Leeds.
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2026 Teacher Handbook
Enter the competition now!
Key dates
29 January 2026 - Articulating Art History online session - do you want to take part but not sure where to start? Join us for this online workshop where one of our academics from the School of Fine Art, History of Art and Cultural Studies will take you through how to analyse a piece of art.
2 February - 18 March 2026- the competition is open for submissions! Put the dates in your diary now so you don't miss the chance to enter.
April 2026 - finalists announced - we'll be announcing the finalists for the competition after Easter
May 2026- workshop for finalists - all the finalists will be invited to an online workshop to help them feel confident in presenting in front of a live audience ready for the final.
9 June 2026 - campus final - the final will be held at the University of Leeds campus.
Teacher resources
Resources and guidance for teachers wanting to get involved in the Discover Articulation Competition.
Online information session
Watch our video presentation to find out about the competition, and receive top tips and guidance on how to get your students involved.
Articulation starter activity
Dr Rebecca Starr (lecturer in History of Art at the University of Leeds), has put together a short activity for teachers to use when introducing students to the Discover Articulation Challenge.
Our top tips
Top tips for students when filming and editing their Discover Articulation Challenge submission.
A teacher's perspective
Paul McGinty, Art and Design Subject Lead at Abbey Grange Academy, Leeds, talks about how the Discover Articulation Challenge has benefitted his students.