A new contest that promotes Whidbey Island artists made its debut this month.

The first-place winner of the Whidbey Island Best Creation Contest will take home $500 in cash. The contest is open to submissions of all kinds, including music, photography, painting, film, jewelry, writing, sculpture and any other art form. Amateurs and professionals alike are encouraged to submit their best piece of art.

The contest was created by Oak Harbor native Robert Sanders as part of his business, On Our Own Arts. The unique company provides marketing for businesses through contests.

The winner of this contest will be chosen by popular vote. Anyone who views the submissions and makes a vote will also be eligible to win a prize. You must be a member to participate. Sign up is free at onourownarts.com/membership.

On Our Own Arts hosts an online scavenger hunt, now known as Cyber Hunt, which also offers cash prizes and is continuing throughout the month of March – this time with clues in physical locations.

Some of the art submissions, with the artist’s consent, will eventually become clues in the Cyber Hunt – an opportunity for more exposure.

Sanders noticed a plethora of artists in Oak Harbor and across Whidbey Island and wanted a way to help bring them a larger following. This was the idea that inspired the name of the company.

“I figured out how to create a space where we can all make it on our own,” he said.

On Our Own Arts now has over 1,000 members and almost 3,000 likes on Facebook.

Along with the first place winner, second place will receive at least $100, and third place will receive at least $50.

Visit onourownarts.com to make a submission. The deadline is March 31.