Call for Artists: Master Artist – Gallery 37
Project: Buckeye 2026 Mural Project
Application Deadline: March 6, 2026 (or as soon as position is filled)
Location: Estrella Mountain Community College, Avondale, AZ
Program Dates: May 26- June 25, 2026
Compensation: $1,143.00 per load hour (6 load hour class)
About Gallery 37
Gallery 37 is West Valley Arts’ award-winning summer youth public art apprenticeship program. For five weeks each summer, students ages 15 to 18 work side-by-side with a professional artist to design, develop, and install a permanent public art piece for a West Valley city.
This innovative program blends arts education, workforce readiness, and community impact, allowing young people to gain real-world experience while contributing to the cultural landscape of the West Valley.
2026 Project: City of Buckeye Mural
For the 2026 program year, West Valley Arts is partnering with the City of Buckeye to create a permanent mural installation celebrating the city’s unique character, heritage, and future. The mural will be designed and installed by the Gallery 37 student apprentices under the guidance of the Master Artist, with input from city and community stakeholders.
Position: Master Artist / Lead Instructor
West Valley Arts is seeking a dynamic and experienced muralist to serve as the Master Artist for the 2026 Gallery 37 cohort. The selected artist will lead instruction, mentor student apprentices, and oversee the conceptualization and installation of the mural project from start to finish.
Responsibilities
- Lead daily instruction in ART 112: 2 Dimensional Design, ensuring course competencies are met. This is a 5-weeks, Monday through Thursday from 9:00-1:10PM May 26- June 25, 2026 . Gallery 37 session (Monday–Thursday at Estrella Mountain Community College)
- Guide students through the complete mural-making process: concept development, design, surface preparation, painting, and installation. Instructor will need to follow MCCCD course competencies using the mural-making process as a way of implementing, operationalizing, and expressing the course competencies.
- Collaborate with WVAC staff, City of Buckeye representatives, and community members to ensure the project aligns with site and civic goals
- Attend all required Gallery 37 events, including:
- Student Orientation (Date TBD Early April 2026)
- Mandatory Public Meetings: Students must attend required presentations to the Buckeye Art Commission, including meetings on: June 4, 2026 and June 10, 2026 at 6:00PM.
- Site visits and installation (Date TBD)
- Ribbon Cutting (Date TBD)
- Model professional artistic practices and foster a supportive learning environment
Qualifications
Required (per Estrella Mountain Community College Faculty Credentials):
- Master’s degree or higher in the teaching field OR a Master’s degree or higher in any field with 18 graduate credits in the teaching field. The following disciplines meet the requirements to teach in this field:
- MFA, Art, Fine Art, Studio Art, Visual Art, Graphic Design, Digital Media, or Media Arts
Preferred:
- Demonstrated experience in mural design and installation
- Experience teaching or mentoring youth in arts education or community-based settings
- Excellent communication and organizational skills
- Ability to collaborate effectively with civic partners and project stakeholders
Additional WVAC Requirements
- Current First Aid & CPR Certification
- Valid IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card (or ability to obtain before program start)
- Strong interpersonal and leadership skills with a commitment to youth development
To Apply
Submit the following materials as a single .PDF file:
- Cover letter outlining your experience with mural projects and youth mentorship
- Resume or CV
- Up to 10 images of previous artwork, with emphasis on mural or public art experience
- 1–2 professional references
CALL FOR ARTISTS
Gallery 37 Apprentice Artist Program – Summer 2026
The Gallery 37 Apprentice Artist Program is a tuition-free, immersive summer arts apprenticeship for high school students in the West Valley. Selected students work collaboratively under the guidance of a professional master artist to design and create a permanent public mural for the City of Buckeye.
Gallery 37 provides a college-level, real-world arts experience that prepares students for future academic and professional pathways in the arts and creative industries.
Why Apply to Gallery 37?
Students selected for the Gallery 37 Apprentice Artist Program will:
- Earn college credit through Estrella Mountain Community College
- Gain invaluable real-world experience working with professional artists and municipal partners
- Collaboratively design and create a permanent piece of public art in the City of Buckeye
- Receive a scholarship upon successful completion of the program
- Build a competitive portfolio and resume
- Develop collaboration, communication, and professional skills in a structured, supportive environment
Gallery 37 alumni leave the program with tangible outcomes, increased confidence, and a deeper understanding of creative careers.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a current high school student, including outgoing seniors
- Be 15–18 years of age as of June 1, 2026
- Reside within the West Valley Arts Council service area
- Demonstrate experience, interest, and commitment to the arts
Preference is given to upperclassmen (juniors and seniors); however, exceptional underclassmen may be considered.
Eligible Communities
The West Valley Arts Council serves students residing in: Avondale, Buckeye, El Mirage, Glendale, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Peoria, Phoenix (west of I-17), Sun City, Sun City Grand, Sun City West, Surprise, Tolleson, Wickenburg, and Youngtown, Arizona.
About the 2026 Project
The 2026 Gallery 37 cohort will design and create a public mural for the City of Buckeye.
While the final project is a mural, artists from all disciplines are encouraged to apply, including drawing, painting, digital art, illustration, sculpture, mixed media, and experimental practices. Prior mural experience is not required.
Application Submission Requirements
Application Deadline
Friday, March 6, 2026, by 5:00 PM Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
Required Materials
All materials must be submitted as one (1) single PDF file.
1. Letters of Recommendation
- Submit 1–2 letters from a teacher or employer
- Recommenders should know the applicant artistically, academically, or professionally
- Letters should address:
- Work ethic
- Artistic skill
- Reliability
- Character
- Commitment to the arts
2. Portfolio Submission
- Submit 3–5 original works of art
- Any artistic discipline is accepted
- Hard-copy artwork may be brought for review during the interview
3. Commitment & Availability
- Applicants must confirm they can commit to the full program schedule
- No more than three (3) absences are allowed
- Anticipated scheduling conflicts must be explained in writing
Mandatory Program Components
- Mandatory Interview: March 19, 2026
- Mandatory Orientation: Early April 2026
- Mandatory Public Meetings: Students must attend required presentations to the Buckeye Art Commission, including meetings on:
- June 4, 2026 6PM
- June 10, 2026 6PM
Program Schedule
- Monday–Thursday
- 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Location: Estrella Mountain Community College
- Program Dates: May 26- June 25, 2026
Student Expectations
Gallery 37 is a fast-paced, collaborative program. Participants are expected to:
- Attend all classes and required meetings
- Communicate absences in advance
- Arrive on time and meet all deadlines
- Treat the program as a professional, college-level experience
- Collaborate respectfully and contribute equally
- Be open to feedback, learning, and growth
Most importantly—be engaged, be curious, and have fun.
How to Apply
A student-ready portfolio template, full submission instructions, and educator resources are available through the West Valley Arts Council.
Copy and Paste this link for template
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Zl4d36M4XbZgvSKB96SeCufy-mS-lCJR/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=102311115253455964673&rtpof=true&sd=true
Submission Deadline: Saturday, April 11, 2026
OVERVIEW
The West Valley Arts Council is seeking artwork for their upcoming Motorworks exhibit. The exhibit will feature original artwork of cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, planes, and trains and all things transportation. Arizona artists 18 and over are invited to submit 2D and 3D artwork (including sculptures made from upcycled car, motorcycle, or airplane parts) for consideration for the Motorworks exhibit. This themed exhibit will celebrate one of humankind's most significant inventions and contributions to the way we connect and will be showcased at the Arts HQ Gallery in Surprise, AZ.
The Arts HQ Gallery is located at 16126 N. Civic Center Plaza, Ste 102, Surprise, AZ, next to the Surprise City Hall. We are run by the nonprofit West Valley Arts Council, established in 1969 as a resource for arts and culture in the West Valley. We have been at this location for the past 10 in what was originally the Heard Museum West. Depending on the season, we attract 400-600 visitors to each exhibit. www.westvalleyarts.org. Check out our past exhibits and events on social media www.facebook.com/westvalleyarts and www.instagram.com/westvalley_arts . Follow us.
Submission deadline: Saturday, April 11, 2026 by 12midnight
ELIGIBILITY
This opportunity is open to professional and emerging artists 18 and older living in Arizona.
CRITERIA:
- Each entry must be the artist’s original work. AI-generated artwork will not be accepted. Pour art will not be accepted.
- The theme is transportation: 2D artwork of cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, planes, and trains, and 3D sculptures made from wood, glass, pottery, or upcycling auto/transportation parts. All artwork should be appropriate for families and children to view. 2D may include paintings, photography, mixed media, or printing techniques
- All 2D artwork must be properly framed and/or wired, not to exceed 20 lbs. Saw tooth is acceptable for light pieces. 3D artwork will be placed on pedestals, hung, or can be free-standing.
- Artwork must stay in place throughout the exhibit.
- Selected 2D work must include a label or identification on the back of the work, including the name of the artist and title, and contact information.
*WVA board and staff reserves the right to refuse any work based on its inability to meet the criteria, inability to be displayed safely and without difficulty, or inappropriateness in themes or content.
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Up to 4 entries per submission.
- Entries must include an image of each piece (images must be at least 300 dpi and .jpg or .png format.), along with the title, size, medium, and price for each. Pricing should include our 25% commission.
- Biography of the artist
- Description / story behind the work.
- Website and Instagram handles if applicable.
- All entries must be completed and received by midnight on the deadline date, and go through this website link.
- $15 nonrefundable entry fee for up to 4 art pieces (one entry per artist) to cover labor and expenses does not guarantee acceptance in the exhibit.
SELECTION
Submissions will be reviewed by a panel of knowledgeable West Valley Arts Council staff members and key partners.
The Motorworks exhibit begins with an opening reception from 5-7pm, Friday, May 1. The reception is free and open to the public at the Arts HQ Gallery in Surprise, AZ, 16126 N. Civic Center Plaza, ste 102. Artists are encouraged to attend and invite family and friends. Share your art and story with fellow artists, visitors, and patrons.
The exhibit will run through July 9, 2026. Artists are responsible for delivery and pick up of their artwork to the Arts HQ Gallery. Pick up will be following the exhibit on Friday, July 10 or Saturday, July 11, 10am-1pm.
Promotion for the exhibit will be featured on the West Valley Arts Council website, newsletters, and social media via Facebook and Instagram. Artists are also encouraged to promote the exhibit in tandem on their own social media platforms and any local media contacts.
SCHEDULE / TIMELINE
Submission Deadline…………………..….Saturday, April 11, 2026
Notice of acceptance………………………..Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Accepted works delivered to gallery……….Friday, April 24 or Saturday, April 25, 10am-1pm
Exhibition Opening Reception……………...Friday, May 1, 5-7pm
Artwork Pickup…………Friday, July 10 or Saturday, July 11, 10am-1pm
Featured artists are also invited to have an extension of their artwork in prints, stickers, or small works in our adjacent gift shop throughout the exhibit.
QUESTIONS - Email Daisy@westvalleyarts.org
Submission Deadline: Saturday, February 14, 2026
OVERVIEW
The Arts HQ Gallery is seeking Americana-themed artwork from Arizona artists for their upcoming America, the Beautiful exhibit. The exhibit will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. We're seeking original 2D, photography, and 3D artwork depicting iconic landscapes, people, and symbology of what makes our country great. The exhibit will run March 6 - April 23, 2026.
The Arts HQ Gallery is located at 16126 N. Civic Center Plaza, Ste 102, Surprise, AZ, next to the Surprise City Hall. We are run by the nonprofit West Valley Arts Council, established in 1969 as a resource for arts and culture in the West Valley. We have been at this location for the past 10 in what was originally the Heard Museum West. Depending on the season, we attract 400-600 visitors to each exhibit. www.westvalleyarts.org. Check out our past exhibits and events on social media www.facebook.com/westvalleyarts and www.instagram.com/westvalley_arts . Follow us.
Submission deadline: Saturday, February 14 by 12midnight
ELIGIBILITY
This opportunity is open to professional and emerging artists 18 and older living in Arizona.
CRITERIA:
- Each entry must be the artist’s original work. AI-generated artwork will not be accepted. Pour art will not be accepted.
- The theme is centered on iconic landscapes, people, places, and things representing the USA, and should be appropriate for families and children to view.
- All 2D artwork must be properly framed and/or wired, not to exceed 20 lbs. Saw tooth is acceptable for light pieces. 3D artwork will be placed on pedestals, hung, or can be free-standing.
- Artwork must stay in place throughout the exhibit.
- Selected 2D work must include a label or identification on the back of the work, including the name of the artist and title, and contact information.
*WVA board and staff reserves the right to refuse any work based on its inability to meet the criteria, inability to be displayed safely and without difficulty, or inappropriateness in themes or content.
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Up to 4 entries per submission.
- Entries must include an image of each piece (images must be at least 300 dpi and .jpg or .png format.), along with the title, size, medium, and price for each. Pricing should include our 25% commission.
- Biography of the artist
- Description / story behind the work.
- Website and Instagram handles if applicable.
- All entries must be completed and received by midnight on the deadline date, and go through this website link.
- $15 nonrefundable entry fee for up to 4 art pieces (one entry per artist) to cover labor and expenses does not guarantee acceptance in the exhibit.
SELECTION
Submissions will be reviewed by a panel of knowledgeable West Valley Arts Council staff members and key partners.
The America, the Beautiful exhibit will open Friday, March 6, 2026 with an opening reception from 5-7pm. The reception is free and open to the public at the Arts HQ Gallery in Surprise, AZ, 16126 N. Civic Center Plaza, ste 102. Artists are encouraged to attend and invite family and friends. Share your art and story with fellow artists, visitors, and patrons.
The exhibit will run through April 23, 2026. Artists are responsible for delivery and pick up of their artwork to the Arts HQ Gallery. Pick up will be following the exhibit on Friday, April 24 or Saturday, April 25, 10am-1pm.
Promotion for the exhibit will be featured on the West Valley Arts Council website, newsletters, and social media via Facebook and Instagram. Artists are also encouraged to promote the exhibit in tandem on their own social media platforms and any local media contacts.
SCHEDULE / TIMELINE
Submission Deadline…………………..….Saturday, February 14, 2026
Notice of acceptance………………………..Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Accepted works delivered to gallery……….Friday, February 27 or Saturday, February 28, 10am-1pm
Exhibition Opening Reception……………...Friday, March 6, 5-7pm
Artwork Pickup…………Friday, April 24 or Saturday, April 25, 10am-1pm
Featured artists are also invited to have an extension of their artwork in prints, stickers, or small works in our adjacent gift shop throughout the exhibit.
QUESTIONS - Email Daisy@westvalleyarts.org