Artists can submit their artwork beginning in June. All artwork must usually be submitted by mid-August, for the contest, which takes place in autumn.

What Makes Good Stamp Design?

• Is the composition strong with sufficient color contrast to emphasize detail and shading?
• Do elements such as shape and line appear strong enough that they do not blur together?
• Does the central design stand out from the background?
• Is it eye-catching?
• Is there enough space for the final stamp lettering and numerals without overlapping the central featured design elements?
• Is the background simple enough to facilitate these additional elements?
• Is the design simple, avoiding designs that will not reduce well or in which important details will be lost?
• Is the design original, avoiding designs that are duplicates of previous Stamps?

Each year, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service chooses five waterfowl species, any one which may be painted.

At least one of the five eligible waterfowl species must be the dominant feature of your entry (in the foreground and clearly the focus of attention). Eligible species for 2022 are:

• Tundra (Whistling) Swan*
• Mottled Duck
• American Green-winged Teal*
• American Wigeon
• Barrow’s Goldeneye *

To be competitive, the more commonly occurring subspecies/races found in North America should be depicted. It is suggested that you avoid depicting Bewick’s (Whooper) Swans and Eurasian/Common Teal.

Complete rules for the 2022 contest are available.