ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Maryland Lottery has launched the Maryland Treasures Art Contest, inviting local artists to submit original artwork for its $2 Maryland Treasures scratch-off ticket, set to launch in March 2026. From July 1 to August 15, 2025, Maryland residents aged 18 and older can submit designs celebrating the state’s history, landmarks, culture, or traditions. Three winning pieces will be featured on the ticket, with each selected artist receiving a $4,000 award.
The contest aims to showcase Maryland’s unique identity through art displayed on tickets sold at over 4,300 retailers statewide. Submissions must be original and align with the Maryland Treasures theme, highlighting elements that make the state special. Artists can find complete contest rules and submission details on the Maryland Lottery’s website. A panel of Lottery staff will anonymously review entries and select three pieces that best capture the theme.
“For more than 50 years, the Lottery has been part of the fabric of the community, and we love the way this contest emphasizes that connection,” said Maryland Lottery and Gaming Director John Martin. “There are many parts of life in Maryland that make it a special place to live, and we’re eager to see how artists will convey that. Their artwork will help us create a ticket that is something unique.”
The Maryland Treasures ticket will mark a creative milestone for the Lottery, which has operated since 1973 and contributes to state programs, including education and public health. The contest provides a platform for artists to gain statewide exposure while contributing to a widely distributed product. Each winning artist will also assist in promoting the ticket, further amplifying their work.
To ensure fairness, the review process will be blind, with the panel unaware of artists’ identities. The Lottery will notify the winners and publicly reveal the selected artwork in the months leading up to the ticket’s March 2026 launch. The $4,000 award covers both the artwork and promotional efforts, offering financial and professional recognition for the artists.
Eligible artwork may depict iconic Maryland symbols, such as the Chesapeake Bay, historic sites like Fort McHenry, or cultural traditions like crab feasts. The Lottery encourages creativity but requires submissions to adhere to guidelines outlined on its website. Artists must verify their Maryland residency and age during the submission process to qualify.
The Maryland Lottery has a history of engaging communities through its games, generating over $1 billion annually for state initiatives. The Maryland Treasures Art Contest builds on this legacy by fostering collaboration with local talent. The selected designs will not only adorn scratch-off tickets but also reflect the pride Marylanders feel for their state.
The contest’s submission window, from July 1 to August 15, 2025, gives artists six weeks to create and submit their work. The Lottery advises applicants to review the rules carefully to ensure compliance with format and content requirements. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.
The Maryland Treasures ticket will join a lineup of scratch-off games that appeal to diverse audiences, with prizes typically ranging from small cash amounts to larger jackpots. By featuring local art, the Lottery aims to create a ticket that resonates with players and celebrates Maryland’s heritage. The initiative also aligns with the Lottery’s mission to engage communities in meaningful ways.
Artists interested in participating can access all necessary information, including submission forms and technical specifications, at https://www.mdlottery.com/CallForArt. The Lottery anticipates strong participation, given Maryland’s vibrant arts community and the opportunity for statewide recognition.
