The 3rd-annual Federal Way Arts Explosion Festival brings a juried art competition to both adult and youth artists from around the region.  Adult artists can submit in five categories: Photography, Digital/Mixed Media, Textiles, Two-Dimensional artwork (paintings, collages, prints), and Three-Dimensional artwork (sculptures, jewelry, ceramics, furniture, wearable and body art). 

This year we are happy to offer youth artists the opportunity to submit from all school districts at the high school level (ages 15-18) in any of the above categories.

Located at the beautiful, picturesque Federal Way Performing Arts and Event Center.  Adult artists are invited to submit work and may apply in more than one category.  Youth artists are invited to submit up to two artworks at no charge. (For youth ages 15-18 only - Use code YOUTH25 at checkout for discount).

All artwork must be submitted in person. No artwork will be shipped or received via mail.

There will be $4,400 in prizes. Artwork will be on display and open to the public for purchase.

IMPORTANT DATES:

Entries Accepted beginning 1/18

Entry Deadline 3/25

Notification of acceptance (or not) - no later than 4/18

Collection of accepted work to the PAEC 5/28

Judging and "Vernissage" First Viewing by appointment only 5/29

Application Requirements

Adult artists may submit up to five entries. Youth artists may submit up to two.   All entries will first be juried from digital images and then be sent invitations to join or be asked to submit again next year.  You will be notified by April 18th if you are invited or if your work will not be included in this year's event.  Awards will be judged by jurors from the original works of art.  Apply online through CaFE, at https://www.callforentry.org.  You will need to create an account (unless you already have one).  It is FREE to create an account!  Follow instructions for each entry.

Make sure to select the accurate category your artwork falls under when filling out your entries.

The Entry fee is $25.00 per piece of work submitted and is non-refundable regardless of acceptance into the show.

The Entry fee for students is FREE. Students use code YOUTH25 at checkout!

Eligibility Criteria

Entries must be original, entirely the work of the applicant, and created within the past three years (since March 15, 2022).  Work must have been done without the supervision of an instructor.  Copies of existing artworks or works solely based on copyrighted artworks are not eligible.  All adult artwork must be gallery-ready for display, with no saw-tooth hangers. Refunds will not be granted to applicants who are not in compliance with this agreement. Each artist is permitted one large piece of artwork which does not exceed 40 inches in width and 40 inches in height (including frame) due to the space limitations of our display area.