GCC Announces Winner of Arizona Grand Canyon License Plate Contest

Grand Canyon, Ariz. (October 21, 2026) — Grand Canyon Conservancy (GCC), the official nonprofit partner of Grand Canyon National Park, is pleased to announce Peter Malamas as the winner of its Grand Canyon specialty license plate design contest. His artwork has been selected to represent one of the world's most iconic natural wonders on a new Arizona specialty license plate, anticipated to become available in late 2027. 

The contest invited artists to submit original designs celebrating Grand Canyon National Park, with the public invited to weigh in through an online voting process. As outlined in the contest’s published Official Rules, the judging panel retained ultimate decision-making authority, evaluating submissions based on the established judging criteria, with public input serving as one component of the selection process. 

Malamas’ design emerged as the clear favorite, receiving the most votes in both the public online voting and the internal judging process. Following its evaluation, the judging panel selected Malamas’ design as the winner in accordance with the Official Rules, with its decision serving as the final determination. 

"We were impressed by the creativity, talent, and passion demonstrated by the artists who participated in this contest," said Elizabeth Silkes, CEO of Grand Canyon Conservancy. "We're thrilled to congratulate Peter and look forward to seeing his artwork help raise awareness and support for Grand Canyon National Park." 

Peter Malamas is a Peoria, Arizona-based graphic designer, art director, and illustrator with a professional background in creative design. He has worked with a variety of firms throughout his career and currently works as a graphic designer and fine artist in the Greater Phoenix area. 

“I’m incredibly honored to have my design selected for the Grand Canyon specialty license plate,” said Peter Malamas. “Grand Canyon is a place that inspires awe, wonder, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. To have the opportunity to celebrate this extraordinary landscape through my artwork, while helping generate support for its preservation, is truly meaningful. I’m grateful to Grand Canyon Conservancy for this opportunity and excited to see the design come to life.” 

The new Grand Canyon specialty license plate was authorized by the Arizona Legislature in June 2026. Once available, Arizona drivers will be able to purchase the plate for an additional $25 annually, with $17 from each plate supporting Grand Canyon Conservancy's work on behalf of Grand Canyon National Park. 

Revenue generated through the program will help GCC support critical initiatives in the park, including conservation, education, cultural preservation, and enhanced visitor experiences. 

 "This license plate represents much more than a beautiful design," added Silkes. "It's an opportunity for Arizonans to proudly display their connection to Grand Canyon while making a lasting contribution to its preservation. We're excited to take this next step toward bringing the plate to Arizona roads." 

The winning design will now move through the Arizona Department of Transportation's review and approval process. As outlined in the contest's Official Rules, modifications may be required to meet state design and production requirements. 

Grand Canyon Conservancy extends its sincere appreciation to every artist who submitted a design and helped celebrate the extraordinary landscape and cultural significance of Grand Canyon National Park. 

About Grand Canyon Conservancy 
Grand Canyon Conservancy is the official nonprofit partner of Grand Canyon National Park, raising private funds, operating retail shops within the park, and providing educational programs about the natural and cultural history of the region. Our members fund projects including trails and historic building preservation, educational programs for the public, and the protection of wildlife and their natural habitat. Grand Canyon Conservancy inspires generations of park champions to cherish and support the natural and cultural wonder of Grand Canyon. For more information, visit www.grandcanyon.org.