Past Winner 2022 - Tabitha Y9 - Universe Glue

If theories are correct and axions are related to dark matter, then when dark matter (the glue that holds the universe together) exists at temperatures that are only just above absolute zero (so that no other objects can emit light/heat), it will emit a very faint light.

High school student DARK Matter art competition

Dark Matter is a hypothetical form of matter that makes up about 85% of the matter in the universe. It doesn’t interact with light or any other electromagnetic radiation so it’s very hard to detect. It’s invisible and we don’t know what it is, but we do know that it exists and is passing through us and is all around us. Scientists are building and running experiments to try to detect it and uncover one of the mysteries of the universe.

Dark Matter is invisible but if we could see it, what do you think it would look like? Use what you have learned about dark matter from our website and any other resources you can find to help you create an original artwork representing YOUR interpretation of dark matter.

There are two year level categories for students to enter the competition and win prizes - details below!

Submissions due FRIday, 15 SEPTEMBer 2023

Email: Your submission to darkmatter-art@unimelb.edu.au along with your name, your year level, the name of your school, and a title and brief explanation (1-2 sentences) about the inspiration for your artwork

Eligibility: Entry is only open to individuals who, during the competition period, fall within one of the designated high school year level categories (Years 7, 8 and 9 or Years 10, 11 and 12) and current residents of Australia

Number of Entries: One entry per student

Winners: Will be notified directly and announced on Tuesday 31st October, 2023 (Dark Matter Day)

Judging Criteria: Artworks will be judged by a panel on creativity and originality, paying close attention to the title and accompanying description

Prize Categories:

First Place: Overall best artwork in each year level category (Years 7-9 and Years 10-12)

Runner Up: One award in each year level category (Years 7-9 and Years 10-12)

Participation Award: for the high school with the highest overall number of entries

Competition Terms and Conditions

Competition Flyer

Some Dark Matter Resources:

Visit our website to learn more about Dark Matter: https://www.centredarkmatter.org/ and watch some cool videos here.