Submission Deadline: May 7, 2026
Exhibition Dates: May 21, 2026 - July 11, 2026
Opening Reception: May 21, 2026

• Read the Prospectus

  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.

• Submission Guidelines

  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:
  Applications must be complete and follow all submission guidelines. Entries that are incomplete or do not comply with the stated guidelines will not be accepted for consideration. The CSA Exhibits Committee reserves the right to reject any artwork that does not meet the stated requirements or guidelines.

  Entry Fee

  • $45 non-refundable entry fee

  • Artists may submit up to two (2) artworks

  Artwork Size Requirements

  • 2D Artwork
    Maximum size 36” x 36” including frame

  • 3D Artwork (pedestal work)
    Maximum size 18” x 18” x 36” high

  • Floor sculptures may 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 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 30 days of the exhibition closing.

  Artwork not retrieved within that timeframe becomes property of Charlotte Studio Artists, due to limited storage space.

  Eligibility

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

  Digital art is excepted.

  The following will not be accepted:

  • Reproductions or prints

  • AI-generated imagery

  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.

• Key Dates

  Submissions Open: March 26

  Submission Deadline: May 7

  Notification of Acceptance: May 9

  • 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