America, the Beautiful Art Call 2026
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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