This exhibition commemorates the 250-year evolution of the United States, exploring what it

means to become—both as a nation and as individuals within it.

Since its founding in 1776, the United States has experienced periods of expansion, conflict,

innovation, and transformation. American society has continually reshaped itself, reflecting an

ongoing process of growth and change.

“The American Journey” invites artists to explore this evolving story through their work.

Artists are encouraged to interpret the theme broadly and creatively.

Possible areas of exploration include:

• The evolution of American identity

• The influence of technology, immigration, and industry

• The changing American landscape — both physical and societal

• The roles of race, class, and gender in shaping the nation

• Reflections on past and present struggles, triumphs, and ongoing challenges

• Environmental and global influences shaping America’s future

Through diverse artistic voices and perspectives, this exhibition aims to reflect the complexity of the American journey—past, present, and still unfolding.

Entry Guidelines:Please read all submission guidelines carefully. Incomplete applications or entries that do not follow the guidelines may not be accepted.

• Open to all artists — emerging, established, and self-taught

• CSA membership is not required

• Artists must be 18 years or older

Important Information:

Applications must be fully completed and adhere to all submission guidelines. Incomplete entries or those that do not comply with the stated requirements will not be considered. Submission deadlines are firm and will not be extended. Inclusion in exhibits will be based on CSA’s alignment with the YMCA, its members and guests. Please keep this in mind when entering artwork. All accepted entries will be considered appropriate for this unique venue.

The CSA Exhibits Committee reserves the right to decline any artwork that does not meet these guidelines.

Submission Instructions

• Artists will submit entries through the CSA online submission form.

• Submission instructions and entry link will be available at: www.charlottestudioartists.com

Entry Fee

• $45 non-refundable entry fee

• Artists may submit up to two (2) artworks per entry fee

Eligibility

• All artwork must be original and created entirely by the submitting artist.

• Digital art will be accepted at the discretion of the Exhibit Committee

• Reproductions, prints, or AI-generated images will not be accepted.

All shipped artwork is the sole responsibility of the artist and must comply with the following guidelines:

• The artist is responsible for all packaging, shipping, and insurance costs.

• The artist must also arrange both delivery to the exhibition and return shipping of the artwork.

• CSA and the CSA Exhibit Committee is not responsible for loss, theft, or damage while artwork is in transit to or from CSA.

Artwork Size Requirements

• 2D Artwork

  Maximum size 36” x 48” including frame

• 3D Artwork (pedestal work)

  Maximum size 18” x 18” x 36” high

• Floor sculptures will be considered case-by-case by the Exhibits Committee

Diptychs / Triptychs

• May be accepted at the discretion of the Exhibits Committee.

• The combined work must not exceed 36 inches in height or width and must be listed as one artwork with a single price.

Hanging Requirements

• All 2D artwork must be wired with D-rings and ready to hang

The following will not be accepted:

• Sawtooth hangers

• Eye screws

• Keyhole hangers

Failure to provide proper hanging hardware may result in rejection from the exhibition.

Safety Requirements

• Artwork may not contain toxic, flammable, or hazardous materials.

• Artwork must be non-perishable.

• Artwork must not endanger visitors in any way.

• Any artwork requiring electricity must use properly grounded 3-prong GFCI plugs.

Sales

• Artists receive 100% of proceeds from the sale of their artwork during the exhibition.

• Artists must provide at least one payment method for collectors (QR code for Zelle,

  Venmo, PayPal, CashApp, etc.).

• In support of our collectors and patrons, artists are strongly encouraged to price their work for sale rather than submit NFS pieces.

Exhibition Terms

• Artwork will remain on display for the duration of the exhibition.

• Collector payment will be verified with the artist before artwork is released at take down.

Artwork Pickup

• Unsold artwork must be picked up within 7 (seven) days following the close of the exhibition.

• Due to limited storage space, any artwork not collected within this timeframe will become the property of Charlotte Studio Artists.

Liability

Charlotte Studio Artists will exercise reasonable care in handling and displaying artwork.

However, CSA is not responsible for loss, theft, or damage while artwork is in transit, on display, or during installation or removal. Artists are encouraged to insure their work if desired.

Submissions Open: March 26

Submission Deadline: April 23

Notification of Acceptance: April 30

• Opening Reception: May 21

• Exhibition Dates: May 21 - July 11

• Artwork Drop-off: May 16 from 10am-4pm

• Artwork Pick-up: July 12 from 1pm-3pm or July 14 from 10am-12pm