CALL FOR ARTISTS

Hello artists! This page offers exciting opportunities for artists to showcase their work at the Holland Area Arts Council and other area events.

Dutch Winterfest - Delft Downtown

Tulip Time invites artists to transform oversized PVC ornaments available in 15", 20", or 24" sizes into captivating works of art inspired by the iconic blue-and-white Delft style. While the Delft's iconic palette remains, your subject matter should break from tradition.

Let your creativity shine by blending classic Delft tones with imagination. Selected designs will be proudly displayed throughout downtown Holland, offering a fresh take on tradition for all to enjoy.

Submit your proposal for a chance to be part of this unique public art experience.

Small Works Holiday Exhibition

Calling all artists! Get ready for the second annual Holiday Art Show: Small Works at the Holland Area Arts Council! We're inviting artists of all ages and mediums to submit their original artwork.

Your work must be recent (created in the last 3 years) and no larger than a standard sheet of paper (8.5" x 11"). You can submit up to five pieces for a $5 fee per submission. Remember, if your piece is framed, the frame must be included in the size measurements.

The show runs from November 13th to December 20th, with an opening reception on November 14th from 5:30 to 7:00 PM.

We can't wait to see your creations! For more details or questions, you can email exhibits@hollandarts.org.

Herricks District Library Maker in Residence Program

Herrick District Library is currently taking applications for their Maker-in-Residence program! Whether someone is a sculptor, a recording artist, a poet, or a DIY extraordinaire, Herrick wants to help them connect with our community, share their skills, and continue doing what they love.

The Maker-in-Residence program is an eight-week residency at HDL that includes:

  • Drop-in studio hours in our Groundworks space

  • Hands-on workshops led by the Maker

  • $1,000 stipend

It’s a great way for creatives to expand their reach, engage with a supportive audience, and inspire others through teaching and sharing.

Applications are now open!

First bloem 2026 - the tulip time festival poster competition

Tulip Time is excited to announce the 2026 First Bloem Festival Artwork Competition, inviting artists from Ottawa, Allegan, Kent, Muskegon, and Kalamazoo counties to submit their work for a chance to be featured as the official Tulip Time poster. The selected artwork will not only grace the festival poster but also be used on various merchandise. Artists can submit up to three pieces for a $35 entry fee. This year's competition will be juried by Catherine Mott, Assistant Director at the Muskegon Museum of Art, who will select the Top 20 finalists. From these, the official Festival Artwork will be chosen by Tulip Time Festival, Inc. The winning artist will receive a $1,000 cash prize. The remaining 19 finalists' works will be displayed during Tulip Time (May 3-9, 2026) for the Viewers' Choice Award, with a $500 cash prize for the public's favorite. Artwork is due October 3-4, 2025, at the Tulip Time office.

Capizzo Gallery - Curated Pop Art Exhibition

Capizzo is putting out a call for artists for a brand new, curated Pop Art exhibition opening on September 25! We're looking for vibrant, bold, and expressive pieces that truly capture the energy of contemporary Pop Art. Don't miss your chance to be part of this exciting show; selected works will be featured in both our physical galleries and the Capizzo online gallery. Plus, there will be cash awards for Audience Choice, Best in Show Emerging, and Best in Show Professional categories.

The Bennett Prize - Celebrating Women Artists

The Bennett Prize is currently seeking submissions from women artists working in figurative realism. Established by collectors Steven Alan Bennett and Dr. Elaine Melotti Schmidt, this biennial prize aims to combat inequities in the art world by promoting the work of talented women painters and increasing appreciation for figurative realist art. The prize supports artists who have not yet achieved full professional recognition, with the goal of propelling their careers and showcasing their creative vision. Please note, the prize is not open to hobbyists, students, or artists who have previously received $25,000 or more for a single work of art.

Ox-Bow Residency Programs

Ox-Bow is excited to announce its diverse residency programs, offering artists unique opportunities to connect, develop new skills, engage in critical discussions, and dedicate focused time to their craft. We have several models designed to foster community and artistic growth. For those seeking studio access, technical support, or private instruction to explore new techniques or fabricate projects, studio rentals are also available during select seasons.

Ox-Bow House Winter Artists Market

Ox-Bow is excited to announce submissions are open for the Winter Artist Market! This is a fantastic opportunity for Ox-Bow alumni, staff, faculty, and regional and national artists to showcase their work. We're accepting applications on a rolling basis and reviewing them monthly.

For the best chance of sales, we've found that artwork priced between $5 and $500 does particularly well in the market. Artists will receive a 60% commission on all sales, with 40% going to Ox-Bow. The Winter Artist Market will be held at Ox-Bow House during regular business hours.

If selected, you'll be invited to bring in 5-10 original pieces to start. Our team may reach out to you to bring in more work or pick up pieces depending on available space, artwork size, and sales performance. While artists aren't required to be present at the market, we encourage you to attend events and help us spread the word! Please note, walk-in submissions will not be reviewed, and artists must be 18 or older to participate.