Naturally Talented Awards

The Naturally Talented Award honors outstanding artistic contributions that creatively interpret scientific or environmental themes. Presented annually, this award recognizes poets and writers whose work deepens our appreciation of nature through the power of words.

The recipient will receive:
✅ A Certificate of Achievement
✅ A $150 cash prize
✅ Recognition on our website, social media, digital publications, and in the Poet’s Corner, our dedicated literary showcase within the museum.

 

Award eligibility, guidelines and criteria

Eligibility: Open to writers and poets of all levels who are inspired by the natural world.

Word Limit:

  • Poetry – Maximum 50 verses
  • Micro-narrative – Maximum 700 words

Submissions will be evaluated on:

  • Originality – A fresh and unique artistic voice
  • Relevance – Alignment with NTP’s mission of merging art and science
  • Technical Quality – Craftsmanship and clarity of language
  • Emotional Impact – Ability to inspire wonder and reflection

Submission Guidelines

  • To ensure a fair and anonymous judging process, do NOT include your name anywhere in the document or in the filename. Submissions that include identifying information in the main document or filename may be disqualified.

✅ Correct: Poem_Title.pdf
❌ Incorrect: JaneDoe_Poem.pdf

  • Accepted file formats: PDF or Word (.doc/.docx) only.
  • We welcome up to three submissions per person.
  • Encose a second document with your personal information, including: Name, email, phone number, whether you are an LSU student, alumni, faculty, or staff, and the title of your poem or micronarrative. 

Submit your work here until January 18.

 

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