Two young Denverites were announced as the winners of the Historic Colorado Contest whose designs will be featured on the state’s 150th-anniversary license plates.

In a ceremony at the Governor’s Office in the state Capitol, Gov. Jared Polis and the Division of Motor Vehicles announced Evan Griesheimer and Calista Blaschke, both of Denver, as the winners of the contest after over 34,000 Coloradans voted for their favorite designs.

Their license plates will be available for purchase starting Aug. 1, 2023.

“Colorado’s awe-inspiring beauty was well reflected in the hundreds of great designs submitted by talented Colorado artists as we celebrate 150 years of Colorado history,” Polis said. “I am proud to congratulate the winners whose beautiful license plates will be on vehicles across the state starting this August.”

Griesheimer won the 13-and-up division of the contest with over 46% of the votes.

His design is inspired by the simplicity and colors of the Colorado State Flag, the Rocky Mountains and mining.

“It feels great to win the contest. It means a lot to me to have one of my designs in a public setting where many will be able to see it,” Griesheimer said. “My friends, family and I are all very excited to be able to have a plate of our own with my design on it. One of my friends even joked about getting me to sign it.”

Blaschke won the under-13 division with 63% of the total vote.

She said winning in her division and helping contribute to the rich history of Colorado is a great honor.

Her design is inspired by Pike’s Peak, fortune hunters, the state bird (Lark bunting) and the state tree (blue spruce).

“It feels amazing to win the contest,” Calista said. “It’s a big accomplishment and I can’t believe my first ever entry into a contest like this ended up winning.”

The Historic Colorado Contest launched on Sept. 19, 2022, and closed with more than 300 entries from 216 entrants. Griesheimer and Blaschke will each receive $1,000 in grants.

Coloradans will be able to purchase both Historic Colorado license plates online at myDMV.Colorado.gov, at local county motor vehicle offices, and at MV Express Kiosks for Coloradans who live in participating counties.