CALL FOR ARTISTS

Show/Exhibition Title: Spark: Strength of Spirit

​Presented by Mono Arts Council
​Guest Curator: M Little Bear Bateman

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Concept + Themes

This show asks us how to bravely dare to dream of a loving, supportive human-centric world full of safe, trusting communities that work together for the good of all. 

When the actions of a ruling body lead to doubt, despair, and separateness, how do we bravely step forward to embody light, strength, love, and hope?  When darkness pervades, how do we find the resilient and hopeful heart persevering with steadfast light? Can we spark other’s souls and our communities to stay alive – and thrive? 

We look to sustain the capacity for loving and lasting change in our world through action, inspiration, impact, and words.

 

Submissions may explore:

Acts of collective care for present and future community

Inspiration that uplifts the self

Inspiration that uplifts others

Love as a gift, labor, ritual, and responsibility

Everyday and overlooked acts of kindness

Revival of human connection

Hope – what inspires us to keep heart

Imagining futures rooted in reciprocity

Resilience of spirit

Strength in collective wholeness

 

Exhibition Goals

This exhibition aims to:

Spark positive and lasting change within ourselves and our communities. 

Inspire action of people to bravely stand up in support for one another.

Foster connection, dialogue, and shared responsibility for creating a happier, healthier, safer world.  

Reinvigorate a dream of love and hope in the strength of collectivity. 

 

Selection Process

Artwork will be selected by a panel composed of staff from Mono Arts Council and our Guest Curator, M Little Bear Bateman. Selections will prioritize artistic quality, conceptual strength, and alignment with the exhibition themes.

 

Media + Eligibility

Open to all visual artists (2D, 3D, installation, photography, mixed media) 

Artists of all career stages encouraged to apply

Regional and place-based artists especially encouraged

 

Submission Requirements

Maximum of 3 separate artwork submissions

1-2 images of each artwork

Artwork details (title, medium, dimensions, year, price if applicable)

Artist Bio (max 200 words)

Brief description of how the work connects to the exhibition theme (200 words)

 

Key Dates 

Submission Deadline: September 14th, 2026

Notification: September 18th, 2026

Drop-off dates: September 21 - September 28th. 

Exhibition Dates: October 2, 2026  -  January 2, 2027

Art Pick-Up Dates: January 3, 2027, January 9th, 2027

 

Questions: info@monoarts.org or 760-914-2909

 

How to Apply

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