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In response to the Illinois State Fair eliminating the professional visual artist exhibition and competition, the Springfield Art Association has created an exhibition alternative: No Place to Show 2023. Professional artists, ages 21 and above, who are residents of Illinois are invited to submit up to three works of art in any media. All work must be original and completed in the last three years. The show will run from August 9 through August 26, 2023 in the M. G. Nelson Gallery at the Springfield Art Association located less than two miles from the Illinois State Fair grounds. The 2D judge will be Jorge Lucero from University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana. The 3D judge will be Khara Koffel of University of Illinois, Springfield.  
SAA reserves the right to photograph all exhibited works for promotional and  educational purposes. 
Opening Reception
A reception and awards presentation will be held on Friday, August 11 from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at the SAA. 
A total of $2,600 in prizes will be awarded: First, Second, and Third Place awards will be presented in both 2D and 3D categories. One overall Best of Show will also be chosen. The 2D judge will be Jorge Lucero from University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana. The 3D judge will be Khara Koffel of University of Illinois, Springfield.  
Calendar
June 15     Electronic entry deadline
July 1   Notification of acceptance e-mailed/sent
August 5      Deadline for receipt of work
August 9   Exhibition Opens
August 11    Exhibition Reception 5:30– 7:30, Awards 6:30
August 26     Exhibition Closes
August 29  Work will be shipped out

Application Requirements

Artists must be 21 years or older and a resident of Illinois. There is a non-refundable application fee of $35. For the fee, each artist may submit up to three works. One image per work. Applications will only be accepted through this website. Work must be original and completed in the last three years. 

Eligibility Criteria

Artists must be 21 years or older and reside in the State of Illinois.