2025 Napkin Sketch Contest

Light and Shadow
Welcome to the 2025 Napkin Sketch Competition, themed “Light and Shadow”. Architects and designers harness light to breathe life into spaces, but shadow is its vital partner, adding depth and drama. Without shadow, light loses its impact. Show us how these elements intertwine to make architecture come alive!

Competition Overview
Using your sketching talents on a 5-inch x 5-inch format, capture the interplay of light and shadow. Your sketch can depict an existing building, an interior or exterior space, or a vision from your imagination. Entries may be in black and white or color, using any hand-drawn medium (e.g., pencil, ink, watercolor), but must not exceed 5 inches x 5 inches. A panel of expert judges will evaluate submissions based on creativity, originality, and technical skill.

Open to All: ALA members, non-members, students, professionals, and the general public are welcome to participate.

First Name*

Last Name*

Email*

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Phone Number*

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Entry Category*

Licensed ArchitectStudentArchitecture ProfessionalPublic

Firm Name/School

Your Home Address*

Street Address

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Number of sketches submitted (submit up to 5)

Upload your sketch entries in PNG, JPG or PDF formats here. Label them: ENTRY 1– YOUR NAME, with each thereafter labeled 2– YOUR NAME, etc. up to 5. All individual files must be under 3 MB.

Participation Agreement: Check Yes to Agree. I understand award winner names, along with company or school and sketches will be published and presented at the ALA Design Awards Celebration on November 7, 2024. Also this information will be published on the ALA website, in social media, in marketing materials and in Licensed Architect Magazine, a publication of the Association of Licensed Architects.*

Yes