Art Flores Memorial Foundation Contest & Scholarship

💜 Honoring Tooter’s Legacy

Art “Tooter” Flores was a loving father, lifelong resident of Flagstaff and Williams, and a gifted artist whose creativity brought joy and beauty to everything he touched. From hand-crafted homes to colorful snow sculptures, Tooter’s art was an extension of his heart. Sadly, Tooter’s struggle with mental health wasn’t visible, and he died by suicide on September 18, 2018.

In his memory, the Art Flores Memorial Foundation works to uplift communities by promoting youth engagement, supporting underserved populations, and raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. This art contest is one of many ways we continue his legacy—by encouraging creativity and conversation that can save lives. Scholarships are awarded to winning recipients to help them pursue their post-secondary goals.

💬 Why It Matters

Mental health looks and feels different for everyone—there’s no one-size-fits-all experience, and no single solution for those who are struggling. By sharing your story through art, you’re helping to normalize conversations about mental health, reduce stigma, and shine a light on proactive solutions. Together, we can create a future where no one has to suffer in silence.

📱 Need Help?

If you or someone you love is in crisis, please reach out.
Call or text 988 – the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
There is help. There is hope.

Submissions for the 2025 Contest have now closed

Annual contest Details

🎨 It’s YOUR Interpretation!

This art contest invites you to express what mental health means to YOU, in your own way, using any medium that inspires you. Whether it’s a tribute, a message of hope, a personal journey, or a societal statement, your voice matters—and your art can make a difference.

✨ Be Creative!

There is no “right” way to express your vision. We encourage all forms of art, including but not limited to:

Painting & Drawing
Sculpture & Mixed Media
Digital Art & Graphic Design
Creative Writing & Poetry
Dance & Choreography
Spoken Word, Monologues, & Essays
Pre-recorded Performance Art (no live performances)

Your submission could focus on:

Overcoming personal struggles
Promoting positive mental health
Raising awareness for suicide prevention
Representing you, someone you love, or society at large
Reflecting on the past, present, or imagining a better future

🎓 Who Can Enter?

This contest is open exclusively to students who are:

High School Seniors, graduating in the current academic year
Graduating from a high school/homeschool alternative in Northern Arizona
Pursuing higher education, vocational training, or some other career program or entrepreneurship