The Greater Denton Arts Council proudly presents the 38th annual International Materials: Hard + Soft Contemporary Craft & Conceptual Art Competition and Exhibition. Recognized as one of the premier craft exhibitions in the country, Materials: Hard + Soft began in 1987 and was originally initiated by area artist Georgia Leach Gough. The exhibition celebrates the evolving field of contemporary craft and the remarkable creativity and innovation of artists who push the boundaries of their chosen media. This year marks a special milestone as we introduce a new element to our long-standing exhibition series: digital media and conceptual art.

Traditionally, this exhibition has celebrated the finest artworks crafted from materials such as ceramic, wood, fiber, metal, glass, paper, and mixed media. In 2025, we are excited to expand our horizons and include digital media and conceptual art that explore the themes of hardness and softness through ephemeral mediums/concepts such as light (or the absence of light), air, and language. ✨

We invite artists to submit their innovative works that juxtapose concepts and materials in unique and thought-provoking ways. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of an evolving tradition that honors creativity and craftsmanship.

The jurors for 2025 are Dallas and Denton based artists/educators Christine Miller and Alicia Eggert. 

The Greater Denton Arts Council will provide Jurors Awards in the amounts of $1,000 for best in show and $300 for best in media. 8 pieces will be selected for best in media and there will be 1 best in the show.

EXHIBITION RUNS: February 21 - May 2, 2025

Application Requirements

Our entry deadline for the 2025 exhibition is December 6, 2024.

The 1st entry fee is $35.00 USD.

The 2nd and 3rd entry are free.

Please submit 1 - 3 applications, each application = 1 artwork entry.

Eligibility Criteria

Works produced in any of the craft media: clay, fiber, glass, metal, paper, wood, or any combination of craft media, and digital media are acceptable. 

Entries must be the complete work of the submitting artist. Local, national, and international artists are encouraged to apply. Kits or commercially designed works will not be accepted. 

All work must have been completed within the past three years (2022-2024) and not previously exhibited at the Patterson-Appleton Arts Center.

All work must be ready for installation. Submissions are restricted to a weight limit of no more than 75 pounds. GDAC reserves the right to exclude any entry that presents complex installation or assembly problems.