Exhibition Guidelines

Welcome! We’re so glad you’re considering sharing your artwork with us. Our goal is to celebrate creativity while keeping everything running smoothly for artists, collectors, and our community. Please take a moment to read through these guidelines so your work shines its brightest in our gallery. If you ever have questions, just reach out! We’re always happy to help!
These are general exhibition guidelines. Each prospectus will outline rules for the specific exhibition. Some remain the same, but you must read a prospectus.
Prospectus For every exhibition that the Arts Center offers we will provide a prospectus. It details exactly what an exhibition is, who is eligible to apply, and how to submit work. It serves as a vital rulebook outlining entry requirements, judging criteria, and important dates. It is a required read for any artist, novice or professional.
Eligibility Each exhibition will clearly state who may apply (local, statewide, or national) as well as any age requirements. This is found in the prospectus.
Entries & Submissions
-Entry fees vary by show and are nonrefundable. For juried exhibitions, your fee helps support the professional juror’s time and expertise.
-Each “Call for Artist” and prospectus will list fee amounts.
-Online entries must be JPEG files under 5MB, between 1600–3000 pixels is recommended.
-Accepted images may be used in show promotions (posters, website, catalogs, etc.) with proper credit when possible.

Sales
-Please mark each piece with a price for sale or list as NFS = “Not for Sale”
-Solo exhibitions may occasionally allow “POR” (Price on Request). Not for juried exhibitions or large group exhibitions.
-The Arts Center processes all sales and will mail payment to artists at the close of the show. We keep a commission rate for art members at 25%. This is much lower than other organizations. To receive the member commission rate, you must be an active member at the time of sale.
-Sales tax is collected on artwork sold. We return the sales tax to you in full. As a nonprofit, we do not report sales tax for artists.
-Buyers are encouraged to leave artwork on display until the exhibition ends. Conditionally, a sold item is eligible to leave early.
-Become a member! Read about memberships here. Perks for you and it supports our mission.

Artwork Guidelines
-Artwork must be original, created within the last 3 years, and not previously shown in our Great Hall Gallery.
-Maximum size: 72” in any direction (including frame), unless otherwise noted.
-No mass-produced or commercial reproductions. No AI generated artwork.
-Photography must be printed and finished by the artist (cropping, edits, etc.).
-Editions must be signed and numbered.
-Clearly label the back of your artwork with: Artist name, contact, title, medium, price
-Artwork must be dry, ready to hang, and meet size requirements.

Delivery & Shipping Shipped work must include a prepaid return label with UPS only. Avoid using packing peanuts

Installation & Presentation
-For juried shows, we handle installation. Just drop off your art!
-For solo or group shows, artists install, with guidance from our gallery team.
- Presentation matters:

  • Two-dimensional work must be framed - no clips, no saw tooth hangers

  • Canvas edges must be neat and finished - no staples, dry paint

  • Glass or acrylic glass is fine for framed work, but keep in mind the final weight. Larger entries would do best w/ acrylic glass

  • Secure wire across the back of framed art. This is required for art. Wires should be installed at 1/3 of the way down a frame, using eye hooks or D hooks. The wire should be clean, free from rust. If you have installed your own wire, check to your work to make sure it hangs on the wall flat, and the wire does not unwind.

  • No tape, nails, or adhesives on gallery walls. We use the Walker Display hanging system. Read here‍ ‍

  • Jewelry or small 3D works should come display-ready in a shadow box or acrylic box for the wall or a pedestal.

  • Very heavy pieces (over 50 lbs. 3D / 20 lbs. 2D) must be discussed in advance.

  • Tag Guidelines for Solo Exhibitions. Create tags for display next to your art show.
    Font Style- Choose a clean, readable sans-serif font such as: Arial, Helvetica, Lato, Open Sans, or Futura for modern exhibitions. Or a simple serif like Times New Roman or Garamond for a traditional look. Avoid script or decorative fonts unless it’s part of a curated theme.
    Title of Artwork 26–30 pt, Bold or slightly larger for emphasis
    Medium & Dimensions,18–22 pt, Regular weight
    Artist Name, 20–24 pt, Can match or be just under title size
    Price (if listed or NFS), 18–22 pt, Optional; same size as medium line
    Additional description (optional), 16–18 pt, Short and easy to read

    Paper & Printing for Tags- white or light neutral cardstock, 80 lb weight minimum, matte (glossy reflects light), black or dark gray text.

    • Mounting: Hang from the Arts Center’s hardware or use a clear acrylic holder. no tape directly on the wall.

Pick-Up & Storage

  • Pick-up dates will be provided for each show.

  • Need early drop-off or late pick-up? Just let us know in advance. We will schedule and work with you!

  • Late pick-up without notice will incur a $10/week storage fee per piece. Unclaimed artwork after 6 months may be considered abandoned.

Liability. We care for every artwork with the utmost respect and professional handling.

  • The Arts Center has security systems, docents, and insurance coverage.

  • However, art is exhibited at the artist’s own risk. We encourage artists to carry personal insurance for added protection.

  • If damage occurs at the Arts Center’s fault, we will cover repairs.

A Final Note- These guidelines exist so that our gallery can shine and your work can be presented at its very best. Communication is key — if you ever need flexibility, just ask. We want your experience to be positive, professional, and inspiring.