​​This year’s subject: Fable-writer Ivan Krylov.

• The ARAA-Otrada contest for children is honoring the Russian author Ivan Krylov, writer of fables, or “Basni” as they are called in Russian. Among some of Krylov’s most famous and beloved fables are “The Grasshopper and the Ant,” “The Monkey and the Glasses,” and “The Fox and the Grapes.”

 

Who may enter the contest?

• Children of Russian heritage living in the USA who attend Russian school, American school, or participate in Russian or Russian Orthodox organizations (scouting, musical, or dance groups, etc.)

• There are three age categories: 5-9 years, 10-13 years, and 14-18 years.

• There are three prizes for each age group:

  • First prize: $250.00; Second prize: $150.00;  Third prize: $100.00 

What you need to do:
Choose and read a fable by Ivan Krylov in Russian or English.

• Draw an illustration or paint a picture depicting a scene or character from the fable that you read.

• Include a short written essay (no less than 50 and no more than 250 words) of why you chose this scene or character and what meaning the fable has for you personally.  You may write in Russian or English.​

 

Additional contest rules: (Rules will be strictly enforced)

• Illustrations, paintings, and accompanying essays MUST be submitted on 8½ x 11 paper. 

• Deadline for submissions: May 9, 2025 at 5:00 pm. No entries will be accepted after this deadline. Physical entries (electronic entries will not be accepted) must be mailed to:

  • ARAA-Otrada Inc. 385 South Pascack Rd. Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977    

• Entries must include the name of the entrant, age, address, affiliation (i.e. school/organization/church), and a point of contact (phone or email of the entrant, guardian, or responsible adult).  

• All entries will be judged on originality, artistic composition, and execution.

• All entries become the property of ARAA-Otrada, and will not be returned. 

• Decisions of the judges are final. ​​