The Charm of Our City: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow

Step 1: Get to know the theme

“The Charm of Our City: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow” — a chance to show your personal view and celebrate the beauty and character of our community through your art.

Step 2: Prepare the artwork

A complete, well-finished piece within the size and medium guidelines. Accepted media: oil, watercolor or pastel, acrylic, spray paint, ink wash or literati painting, hot wax (encaustic), digital art, sculpture and pottery.

Paintings smaller than 18″ × 24″ were framed for free; larger paintings had to be framed, mounted or created on canvas by the artist. Sculptures and 3D installations were measured by height, width and depth.

For sculptures and fragile pieces, only photos or a video were needed to submit; the work itself was brought to the exhibition once selected.

Step 3: Photograph or scan it

A high-resolution photo or scan with good lighting and clarity so the details show, saved as JPEG or PNG.

Step 4: Write an essay or make a short film

A personal essay of up to 500 words, or a short film of up to 3 minutes, on the interpretation of the theme, the inspiration behind the artwork and the artistic journey.

Films in a common format such as MP4, hosted on YouTube or Vimeo.

Step 5: Complete the submission form

Name, contact information, artwork title, medium, dimensions, and a link to the essay or film (an essay could also be pasted in or uploaded).

Step 6: Upload the image

The file name includes the artist’s full name and the artwork title, for example JaneDoe_HarmonyInNature.jpeg.

Step 7: Package and label

Packaged safely for transport, with fragile pieces clearly marked on the package.

Labeled with the artist’s full name, contact details and artwork title, so every piece is properly attributed and displayed.

Step 8: Drop off before January 31, 2025

At one of the partner locations below, or mailed to the Foundation by the same date.