Latino Art Beat announced its 11th consecutive Hispanic Heritage art competition for 11th- and 12th-graders at the recent opening day reception of the Latino Art Beat retrospective art exhibit hosted by the U.S. Department of Education in Washington, D.C.

The exhibit, consisting of winning artwork from Latino Art Beat art competitions themed "What Hispanic Heritage and Culture Means to Me."

Students in Chicago, Houston, Miami, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. may participate in the 2008 national Latino Art Beat art competition, "Drawing and Painting" category by their artistic interpretation of "What Hispanic Heritage and Culture Means to Me."

All media accepted, mounted or matted not to exceed 30" x 36". Guaranteed scholarship awards are 1st Place $1,000; 2nd Place $750 and 3rd Place $500.

Winning students who are accepted to Latino Art Beats academic partner colleges may qualify for higher scholarship awards.

Participating departments of education will advise schools as to local drop off locations for competition entries.

The national competition deadline date is May 29.

A national winner will be selected from all the regional winners, for additional scholarship support and national media recognition.

Winners will be recognized regionally at awards ceremonies during Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 - October 15, 2008).

Students interested in participating in the 2008 art competition may contact their participating high school art teacher or visit the Latino Art Beat Web site at http://www.latinoartbeat.com.