Report by Ms. Lorena Schlicht, Mayors for Peace France (AFCDRP)
The City of Varennes-Vauzelles is taking part for the very first time in the international Children’s Art Competition “Peaceful Towns” Art Challenge” organized by Mayors for Peace. Between January 6 and March 14, 2025, children from our after-school programs, leisure centers, schools, sports clubs, and the youth municipal council created real works of art with the help of our facilitators and volunteers.
A total of 28 drawings were collected and exhibited under the town hall’s pyramid from June 2 to June 13, 2025. During the exhibition, visitors were invited to vote for their favorite drawing by placing a ballot in a dedicated box — nearly 148 people took part in this public vote.
At the close of the exhibition, a jury made up of citizens, elected officials, city staff, representatives of local associations, and the Mayor gathered to choose the other winners in two age categories: 6–10 years old and 11–15 years old.
A prize ceremony was held on Friday, June 13, 2025, in the presence of the municipal team, young council members, and the Mayor of Varennes-Vauzelles.
Congratulations to Émilie (10 years old), winner of the Public’s Choice Award, and to Lise (9), Élisa (8), Éléanore (10), Méline (10), Anna (10), and Timéo (11) whose drawings were selected by the jury. These 7 drawings will now be sent to Mayors for Peace in Japan, to compete in the international grand final!
Photos: courtesy of Mayors for Peace France