This is Art! invites everyone aged 18 and under, individually or in groups, to create a piece of art to be showcased in an online art gallery for generations to come. In so doing, the competition promotes artistic practice among young people while encouraging creativity, originality and self-expression.

Everyone at RTÉ is thrilled with the response to the This Is Art! competition. The volume and standard of work that is being uploaded onto the website every day is staggering. Through their work and artist’s statements the young people of Ireland have given creative expression to their lives and concerns at this time. It is a unique privilege to be able to showcase this work and that is why we feel it is extremely important to facilitate as many young creators as possible by extending the deadline. Suzanne Kelly, Head of Young People’s Programming, RTÉ

We are thrilled with the response from the young people of Ireland to the This Is Art! initiative. Our ambition for this project is that it would encourage our younger citizens to realise their full creative potential and to find new ways to express themselves, develop self-confidence and a sense of creative achievement. At a time when life seems so restricted, creativity helps us all feel free and therefore we are delighted that the deadline has been extended to allow more young people to participate. Tania Banotti, Director of the Creative Ireland Programme.

I’ve been delighted to see the imaginative entries by children of all ages from across the country to date. We’re seeing such incredibly thoughtful and beautiful artworks from young people. Art provides us with an important way to communicate our feelings and experiences and this is particularly vital during these unprecedented times. The artworks that these young people are creating give us a glimpse into their lives and will stand as an important record of life in Ireland today.” This Is Art! judge. Tadgh Crowley, Glucksman Museum, Cork

Further information and all competition details and terms and conditions are available at www.rte.ie/thisisart and www.thisisart.ie.

Take a look at some of the entries that have been uploaded to the This Is Art online gallery.