CALL FOR ARTISTS

Show/Exhibition Title: Dive into the Details

Presented by Mono Arts Council

Guest Curator: Tim Aston

 

Concept + Themes

It’s easy to miss the small things in life. The Sierra rises magnificently in our region, and easily captures our whole attention. But upon a closer look, many different kinds of rock constitute each individual mountain, and distinct flora and fauna comprising the ecosystems of the valleys and basins below. "Missing the forest for the trees," a saying that comes up frequently, reminds us to nay forget to celebrate the details that make up the larger whole. Spending a long time in a place may reveal a small feature, a petite detail that appears more than what you witnessed at first glance. These miniature elements tell a deeper story, one that fleshes out when seeing how it builds the larger whole. A mountain, a valley, a tree -- these all tell their tale when viewed up close, when witnessed under a discerning gaze. Even the subtleties on a human face or pet lend themselves to an underlying narrative. 

 

Submissions may explore:

Any detail that has caught your attention

The curve of a tree’s limb

The way your friend’s eyebrow lifts when they’re talking about their favorite subject

The texture of soil when it freezes

Something small you’d like to celebrate and draw attention to

Something subtle that bothers you

Something minor that makes you feel major

 

Exhibition Goals

The goal of this exhibition is to take a closer look at the smaller things in our lives that aren’t noticed immediately.  

 

Selection Process

Artwork will be selected by a panel composed of staff from Mono Arts Council and our Guest Curator, Tim Aston. 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: December 12th, 2026

Notification: December 14th, 2026

Drop-off dates: January 9th, 2027 - January 14th, 2027

Exhibition Dates: January 22nd, 2027 -  April 22nd, 2027

Art Pick-Up Dates: April 16th - April 26th.

Reception: January 23rd, 2027, 5- 7 PM. All friends and family are welcome, this is an open even to the wider community! Please come celebrate your art.

 

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

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How to Apply​​​​

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