The Science Without Borders® Challenge is an international student art contest organized by the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation to inspire ocean conservation through art. The 2027 theme, “Navigate with Care,” asks students to create original artwork showing how safe and responsible navigation can protect marine life, conserve fragile ocean ecosystems, promote safety at sea, and help people and nature coexist. The contest is free to enter and open to students worldwide ages 11–19 who are enrolled in primary or secondary school, or the home-school equivalent. College and university students are not eligible. Entries are judged in two age groups, 11–14 and 15–19. Scholarships are awarded in each age group: $500 for 1st place, $350 for 2nd place, and $200 for 3rd place, plus a $50 People’s Choice Award. New for 2027, each participant must submit two progress photos documenting the creation of their artwork and one high-quality image of the completed piece. Progress photos are used only to verify originality and are not judged or published. Only the final artwork is judged. Entries are evaluated on understanding of the theme, elements of art, creativity, craftsmanship, and visual impact. The Challenge encourages students to combine science, creativity, and ocean literacy while raising awareness of the importance of protecting the world’s oceans.
