The Ann Arbor Art Center (A2AC) invites artists working within the context of printmaking to participate in Awake! Printmaking in Action opening April 14 through May 28, 2023.

With the state of the world’s inequities, what is the current visual language of activist movements? From the recent pro-union protests to the urgency of climate change to the anti-hate protests of BLM, LGBTQIA+, disability justice, AAPI and Indigenous rights groups, how have printmakers assisted with - and responded to - in creating an aesthetic of change through the use of imagery, language and mass production? 

This exhibition features art striving to embolden, seek justice for and give voice to the various activist movements occurring in the U.S. and around the globe.

Accepted work will be featured in the A2AC’s Spotlight Gallery and the Ann Arbor District Library’s Downtown exhibition space from April 14 - May 28, 2023. 

Eligible Techniques:

Printmaking, in all its techniques, is welcome: Woodblock, silkscreen, digital, linoleum, letterpress, litho, etching, monoprints, alternative processes, and more. 

Calendar/Timeline:

January 6- February 5: Accepting submissions

February 5: Submission deadline

February 20: All artists notified of results via email

March 15-22: Artwork drop off or shipping to gallery

April 14: Opening reception

April 14 - May 28: Exhibition

May 28: Exhibition closes

June 7-14: Pickup/Return of artwork

Presentation:

Accepted work must be framed in a professional manner and ready to install using framing wire. No sawtooth hangers or d-rings. Or if your work is usually presented as installation or in an alternative presentation method (non-framed), please make sure to show us this in your image submissions.

Exhibitions Marketing and Engagement:

Artists and the exhibition will be promoted through the A2AC’s vibrant marketing strategies including the website and gallery's webpage, blog, social media blasts, e-newsletters, various area event calendars as well as through the Ann Arbor District Library’s website, various printed publications, and social media blasts. Additional community outreach programs and events will accompany this exhibition.

Requirements

Artists 18+ years living in the U.S. are welcome to apply. Please provide 1-3 high quality images of original works of art: All artwork must be of the artist’s own creation. All artwork must be professionally presented, and ready for installation. Artist must submit an artist statement. 

Jurying

Jurying is anonymous through the A2AC Exhibition Committee comprised of professional artists and arts leaders, A2AC Board Members and A2AC Exhibitions staff.

About the A2AC:

Since 1909 the A2AC has been sparking creativity in people of all ages and artistic abilities. Our mission is to be a contemporary forum for the visual arts through education, exploration, collaboration and exhibition. We engage minds, expand perspectives and inspire growth in students of all ages, teachers, artists and the community.

Through innovative programming, provocative exhibitions, wide-ranging learning courses, and a shop offering handmade artworks, the Art Center engages over 60,000 people annually in exploring the arts. The Ann Arbor Art Center is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization.

Application Requirements

PLEASE READ THE TERMS & CONDITIONS FOR FULL DETAILS ON PARTICIPATION

Technical Assistance: If you are having trouble uploading images or completing your submission, email the CaFÉ Team at cafe@westaf.org, or visit the CaFÉ Help page. They are fantastic and very helpful. Please do not contact the A2AC for image editing or image uploading assistance. 

Eligibility Criteria

Call for submissions is open to anyone 18 years and older living in the U.S.