The Johnny Nelson Katy Heritage Museum will be conducting a contest for young Katy ISD artists in the weeks leading up to the annual Katy Rice Harvest Festival, the museum announced on its Facebook page on August 17.

In honor of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, this year’s theme is “Birthday Card to America.” Students are encouraged to use their artwork to share a birthday wish for “We the People,” and reflect on the symbols that represent the country, as well as the ideals in the Declaration of Independence, such as “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

The contest is open to all KISD art students. The full rules and registration packets will be available from district art teachers.

Entries are due at the museum, located at 6002 George Bush Drive in Katy, by September 28. Judging begins October 8 and winners will be announced on October 12.

The artwork entries will be on display at the museum from October 10 through November 2. Artists may retrieve their entries from November 2 to 6.

The Johnny Nelson Katy Heritage Museum and MKT Depot Museum are open Thursday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 11.a.m. to 5 p.m. To schedule a group tour, call 281-578-7461. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.

The VFW Post 9182 & Auxiliary - Katy, Texas Katy Veterans Memorial Museum, located next door, is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.