Call Description

The Greater Denton Arts Council proudly presents the 39th annual International Materials: Hard + Soft Contemporary Craft + Digital 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. 

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 grew to expand the accepted media list to include digital art and conceptual art. 

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 2026 show are being determined at this time. 

The Greater Denton Arts Council will provide Jurors Awards. The nature of the awards have changed as follows:

Two Awards of - $1,000 - "Juror's Choice Award" (chosen independently by each juror)

Four Awards of - $450 - "Best Quality Craftsmanship", "Best in New Media", "Most Innovative Use of Materials" & "The Story Teller" (best compelling narrative).

EXHIBITION RUNS: February 26 - May 9, 2026

Application Requirements

Our entry deadline for the 2026 exhibition is November 21, 2025.

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, digital and conceptual 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 (2023-2025) 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.