Call for Artists

Call For Artists

Departures: The Art of Leaving this Place - South Gallery Exhibition

Salina Art Center, January 8th – January 31st, 2027

History & Purpose

Inspired by Beethoven's Symphony No. 6 ("Pastoral"), this exhibition celebrates the beauty, power, and emotional resonance of the natural world. Rather than simply depicting scenery, Pastoral invites artists to explore their personal relationship with the landscape—its quiet moments, changing seasons, working fields, forests, waterways, wildlife, weather, and the sense of wonder, peace, or awe that nature inspires. 

Artists are encouraged to submit work in any medium that reflects the spirit of the pastoral, whether through realistic landscapes, abstract interpretations, environmental themes, or contemporary perspectives on our connection to the land. From tranquil meadows to dramatic storms, cultivated fields to untamed wilderness, we welcome artwork that captures the many ways nature shapes our lives and imaginations..

This exhibition is in partnership with Salina Symphony and their perfomance of “Nature & Grandeur” which will take place on Sunday January 17th, 2027 at the Stiefel Theatre. This exhibition features German composer Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6, “Pastoral”. From tranquil landscapes to monumental sound, Nature and Grandeur begins with Beethoven’s gently unfolding “Pastoral” Symphony, a heartfelt tribute to nature that captures birdsong, flowing streams, and the quiet joy of the countryside.

Enter Here

Entries

  • All entries must be submitted online.

  • Open to artists of all ages, working in any medium

  • All entries must be received by November 15th, 2026.

  • Artists may submit up to three separate works and no more than two media files per work, for a total of six files.

  • Media files must be clearly labeled with the title of the work and the artist’s name.(last name_first name_Title of Work_year created)

  • Artists must include a written statement about their work. (not to exceed 250 words)

  • Artwork must be ready for exhibition and professionally presented.

  • Artists are responsible for delivery and return shipping of their work.

Conditions of Acceptance

  • Applicants will be notified of acceptance by December 2nd, 2026

  • Selected applicants must complete a loan agreement including an insurance value for their work

  • Once accepted, work may not be removed from the Art Center prior to the exhibition’s close, January 31st, 2027

Shipping and Insurance
Selected artists grant Salina Art Center permission to reproduce their work for publicity purposes.The Salina Art Center will insure work wall-to-wall under its fine art policy.

Artists will be responsible for delivering work to and from the Salina Art Center, including any round-trip shipping/insurance costs. Work must be shipped in sturdy, reusable packaging and adequately protected against the normal stresses encountered while in transit. All packaging should be clearly marked with the artist’s name and address. Shipments should be sent to:

Salina Art Center

242 S. Santa Fe

Salina, KS, 67401

Work may be hand-delivered during public hours, Wednesday - Saturday, 10 am-5 pm, or Sunday from 10am-2 pm or by appointment during our office hours, Monday - Friday, 9 am-5 pm.

We have volunteers willing to travel to collect work from schools if shipping or delivery is a barrier to participation.

All selected pieces must arrive at the Art Center by January 5th, 2027, by 5 pm.

Presentation

Work must be received in ready-to-exhibit condition. The Art Center will not be responsible for framing, mounting, or otherwise preparing works for exhibition.

A professional presentation of artwork is required for inclusion in the exhibition. Framing is preferred for 2D works, but professional mounting/installation will also be accepted; 3D works must be stable. It is highly recommended that works on paper are framed. Any works that are matted must be in a frame. The Art Center reserves the right to reject any work that is not presented in a professional manner, deemed unsafe/unstable, or otherwise unsuitable for handling or display. Please contact the Art Center if you have any questions or concerns.

Return of Work

Work must be picked up or returned to the artist by February 5th, 2026.

Dates to Remember

November 15th, 2026                                         Call for Submission entries due by midnight

November 15th - December 2nd, 2026            Selection process

December 2nd, 2026                                          Artists notified

January 2nd, 2027                                              Selected pieces must be at the Salina Art Center

January 8th, 2027                                               Exhibition opens

January 8th, 2027                                               Opening reception (5-7 pm) 

January 31st, 2027                                             Exhibition closes

February 5th, 2026                                              Deadline for works to be picked up or returned