As we age we change both externally and internally; we transform and metamorphosize. We inevitably ask ourselves: “Is this who I am now? Who was I before? Is this me?” We find beauty in the confusions and the transformations. We are inviting artists that meditate on the disturbing reality of their own potential. Is It Me? invites art that unveils the roadblocks that impede self-actualization. We question whether the oasis of maturity is actually a mirage - a hazily reconfigured reality, distorted by the sweltering heat of generational expectations. This exhibition is about self and health, wellness and worry — as we examine our skin, our fears, and our personal growth. 

Is It Me? challenges artists to submit art in an array of media, including digital, film, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, textiles, video, and installation art. For our juried exhibitions, the Trolley Barn Gallery brings together an international roster of vital voices in art and culture, presenting thought-provoking artwork and ideas in a renovated industrial space that is the hub for the area’s thriving arts scene.
Is It Me? is the most recent exhibition from the Trolley Barn Curatorial Team. This international juried exhibition will be held March 10 through April 14, 2023 at The Art Effect's Trolley Barn Gallery, 489 Main St., Poughkeepsie, New York, with an Opening Reception Friday, March 10, 5-7pm.   

Artists are responsible for transportation/delivery to and from the Trolley Barn Gallery. Artists must provide pre-paid, return shipping labels. 

About the Jury Process
The artwork selection process for the exhibition is part of The Art Effect’s innovative youth curatorial program that brings together established arts professionals and local youth to present high-caliber art exhibitions and also open pathways for youth to consider careers in museums and professional art galleries.

Artwork Selection
Curator will work collaboratively with accomplished youth from The Art Effect to select artworks for the exhibition. Artwork selected for the exhibition will be shown in the Trolley Barn Gallery as well as in an online exhibition. 

Sale of Works
Exhibiting artists may specify a retail price for work that is available for  purchase or not for sale. The Art Effect will retain a commission fee of 20% of the sale price for members of The Art Effect and current students; for non-members, the commission fee is 30%. 

IMPORTANT DATES:

Entry Deadline: Nov 14 - Dec 16
Notification of accepted artwork: January 2
Delivery of accepted artwork: Feb 6 - 24

Exhibition: March 10 - April 14, 2023

Opening Reception: March 10, 6-8pm
Reception and Prizes Announced: March 10
Shipping and pickup of accepted artwork: April 25 - May 13 

 About The Art Effect:

The Art Effect empowers young people to develop their creative voice to shape their futures and bring about positive social change. The Art Effect (formerly Mill Street Loft + Spark Media Project) helps youth explore, experience, and excel in the arts, introducing them to visual arts and media, giving them the opportunity to develop real skills in these fields, and guiding them towards achieving their academic and career goals. We believe that the arts have the power to create a more vibrant, caring, and sustainable world led by a generation of youth who value creative thinking, diverse voices, and stronger connections between all people. The Art Effect directly serves over 2,000 young people throughout the Hudson Valley each year. The mission of The Art Effect at the Trolley Barn is to train youth as leaders who catalyze the community through the arts and re-energize downtown Poughkeepsie. Exhibitions at the Trolley Barn are free and open to the public — so there are no financial barriers to access.

Application Requirements

Artwork Specifications

We recommend a maximum of 7 feet in any direction; there is no minimum. 2D artwork should not weigh in excess of 65 pounds. Artwork must be exhibition ready with appropriate frames and hardware as applicable (we prefer wire hanging systems but any hanging mechanism is accepted). Please contact us at trolleybarn@feelthearteffect.org for consideration if your work exceeds these specifications or if your work needs special instructions – we may be able to accommodate your work. The Trolley Barn Gallery is suitable for a range of artwork sizes and media, and we are pleased to work with invited artists to ensure effective installation and presentation of their artwork. Site plan available on request. If you have less than three images or media, please create a blank image that reads "This page intentionally left blank" in order to meet the minimum of three uploads. 

Eligibility Criteria

Artists of all ages are welcome, regardless of where they are from or how they identify.
Artists will be notified within approximately 2-3 weeks after the deadline in an email about the selection status of their entries.