The What Does Peace Look Like art contest, sponsored by Amnesty International, closed its doors for submissions April 15 and is currently choosing a winner and two runners-up.

The contest opened as a part of Social Justice Week in March. The Center for Judaic and Holocaust studies and the Department of Art helped with the event. This is the first time this contest has been held at Appalachian State University.

“Instead of having everyone go to film screenings, different actions or speeches, we decided to look at it creatively,” said Christina Fasanello, a freshman anthropology major and vice president of Appalachian’s Amnesty International.

The organizers hope to display the artwork submitted next semester in the Looking Glass gallery in Plemmons Student Union. They then hope to do either a silent auction or have the artists donate their pieces to Amnesty International.

The event has cash prizes for the first, second and third place winners. Appalachian and the Community Together, Bangs Shoes and Amnesty International donated the prizes.

“We wanted to show people they can get involved, not just go to events and sit and listen and learn, but they can be a part of it,” said Christina Cushing, an art committee member.

Amnesty International, a human rights organization founded in the 1960s, came to Appalachian last semester. The group sheds light on issues like the death penalty, drone use and human trafficking. There were approximately 10 submissions this year, but the students involved hope to grow next year.

“Art really does move people to act for justice or peace,” said Amanda Moore, a senior global studies major and president and founder of Amnesty International on Appalachian’s campus.

Amnesty International is currently in the process of deciding the winners and will announce their decisions before the end of the semester.

Story: JAY SALTON, Intern A&E Reporter