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Celebration of the Arts

2026 Artist Application

The Rutherford County Visual Artist Guild invites artists to participate in the 2026 Celebration of the Arts exhibition.

Exhibition Dates: September 30 – October 3, 2026

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Location:

The Guild

160 N. Main Street

Rutherfordton, NC

Artist Entry Limit: 50 Artists

 

Each artist may submit a maximum of two (2) pieces of artwork under a single application. Applications close September 13, 2026, at 11:59 PM or when 50 artists have been accepted.

Awards & Cash Prizes

Artwork will be judged by category, with awards presented as follows:

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🏆 Best in Show – $200 (One overall winner)

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🎨 2-D Artwork

  • 1st Place – $150

  • 2nd Place – $100

  • 3rd Place – $75

 

🗿 3-D Artwork

  • 1st Place – $150

  • 2nd Place – $100

  • 3rd Place – $75

Award recipients will be announced on Oct. 3rd 4PM-5PM

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Artist Application

Guild Membership Status

Choose your membership status with The Guild currently:

Artist Eligibility Section

Artwork #1

Medium
Category
2D
3D
Is this artwork for sale?
Yes
No (NFS)
Has this artwork been displayed in a previous juried art show?
Yes
No
If Yes: Has this artwork received an award?
Yes
No

Artwork previously shown in juried exhibitions is eligible if it has not received an award.

Artwork #2

Medium
Category
2D
3D
Is this artwork for sale?
Yes
No (NFS)
Has this artwork been displayed in a previous juried art show?
Yes
No
If Yes: Has this artwork received an award?
Yes
No

Artwork previously shown in juried exhibitions is eligible if it has not received an award.

Display Requirements

Artist Agreement

I certify that:

  • I understand this exhibition is limited to 50 artists.

  • I understand voting will be conducted by People's Choice.

  • I understand entry fees are non-refundable.

  • I understand that applications must be submitted by September 13, 2026, or before the artist cap is reached.

Important Dates

Artist Drop-Off

Monday, September 28, 2026

3:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Reception

Friday, October 2, 2026

5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

People's Choice Voting

September 30 – October 3

Awards Announced

October 3, 2026

Artwork Pick-Up

Monday, October 5, 2026

3:00 PM – 7:00 PM

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