Reflect on Privacy through Art
The Unveil contest challenges U-M students to reflect on ideas and experiences, create original art, and spark important conversations about the intersection of privacy and surveillance, autonomy, individual rights, or civil liberties.
Co-sponsored by Information and Technology Services (ITS) and the School of Information.
Unveil 2026
View the Unveil Winners Gallery.
Check out the Michigan Daily's coverage of the 2026 award ceremony and reception.
Prepare for Unveil 2027
Submissions
Submissions for the contest will open in late fall 2026. Check back for information about submitting. The following categories are accepted:
- Visual Art (2D, 3D, photography, graphic design, multimedia)
- Performing Art (music, dance, theater)
- Literary Art (poetry, essay, fiction, spoken word)
Limited to one submission per student. Collaborations allowed.
Enrolled students on the UM-Ann Arbor, UM-Dearborn, and UM-Flint campuses were eligible to participate.
Prizes
The top 3 winners in each category receive a prize:
- First Prize: $500 gift card and gift basket
- Second Prize: $250 gift card and gift basket
- Third Prize: $100 gift card and gift basket
Judging Criteria
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Relevance |
How clearly the work explores the intersection of privacy and surveillance, autonomy, individual rights, or civil liberties; strength of message or storytelling. |
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Mastery |
Quality and proficiency of technique (visual, written, or performative). |
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Creativity |
Extent to which the work demonstrates unique ideas or a fresh perspective and expresses ideas in new and interesting ways. |
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Originality |
Extent to which the work stands out from conventional approaches, using a unique and authentic style. |
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Impact |
Ability to provoke thought, inspire reflection, or evoke emotion; memorability and audience resonance. |