Calling all artists with a penchant for wildlife and a dab hand at painting – the Division of Forestry and Wildlife in Hawaiʻi is on the hunt for your talent. Okay, not literally on the hunt, but they are eagerly seeking submissions for the 2026-27 Hawaiʻi Wildlife Conservation and Game Bird Stamp Art Contest. The creations selected will grace the yearly conservation and game bird stamps, which, aside from being essential for hunting licenses, have become collectible items in their own right.
This year's focus is on the wild pig, a familiar sight across the Hawaiian landscape, and the California quail, brought to the islands all the way back in 1818. According to DLNR's announcement, the wild pig has its roots in Polynesian and Eurasian breeds, making it a bit of a local celebrity, of sorts. The California quail, with its unique top feather and distinctive markings, has also left its mark on the island's ecosystems.
Interested parties should note the technical specs for the contest: artworks must be a maximum of 24” by 36”, unframed, and preferably in oil or acrylic to fit within the final 1” X 1.5” stamp size. You can send a completed painting or an 8.5” X 11” photo/print/photocopy of the masterpiece as your entry. But remember, time's ticking – entries need to be in by February 23, 2026.
There's a bit of admin involved, too. Shipped paintings come with a $35.00 return fee, though submitting a photo, print, or photocopy is free. If you're shipping your artwork, don't forget to include a check made payable to the DLNR, or be prepared to collect your work in person if you decide to forego the fee. Winners of the contest get a $1,000 prize, which is nothing to snort at. The proceeds from the sales of these stamps get channelled back into the state Wildlife Revolving Fund to support various conservation efforts, as outlined in DLNR statement.
Last year's stamp sales were deployed for maintaining hunting units and enhancing game-bird and mammal hunting opportunities. For the naturalists and wildlife enthusiasts out there, it's a win-win: art celebrates wildlife, and in turn, supports it. The DLNR dispatch also mentioned funding from these sales supporting salaries, lease rentals of the Lānaʻi Cooperative Game Management Area, and wildlife diversity programs, showcasing how each stamp plays a part in broader ecological efforts.
