Call Description

2026 THEME

Illumination is a juried exhibition open to San Ramon Residents of all ages exploring the concept of light — both as a physical phenomenon and as a symbol of clarity, transformation, and revelation. Artists are invited to submit work that investigates how light defines space, reveals truth, or inspires insight. Whether through natural light, artificial glow, or metaphorical brilliance, this show celebrates work that interprets illumination in diverse, innovative ways.

Accepted media include painting, photography, sculpture, digital art, mixed media, and ceramics. Both representational and abstract interpretations are welcome.

TIMELINE

• January 23: Online applications open
• March 22: Online applications close
• April 3: Selection notification via email
• April 23-24: Artwork drop off, 9:00am-8:00pm
• May 8: Public artists’ reception, 6pm-8:00pm
• May 28-29: Artwork pick up, 9:00am-8:00pm

CATEGORIES

• Kindergarten - 2nd Grade
• 3rd Grade - 5th Grade
• 6th Grade - 8th Grade
• 9th Grade - 12th Grade
• 18yrs+
• 55yrs+

ENTRY FEES

Up to 3 entries per artist

$15.00

LOCATION

Dougherty Station Community Arts Center
17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd., San Ramon
Exhibit on display May 8 - May 27

AWARDS

Overall

Best in Show: $150 gift certificate

Per Category

Blue Ribbon: $75 gift certificate

Red Ribbon: $50 gift certificate

White Ribbon: $25 gift certificate

QUESTIONS

Contact: Recreation Coordinator, Ri Thomas
Email: rthomas@sanramon.ca.gov
Phone: 925-973-3322

Application Requirements

HOW TO ENTER

• Submit the application via CAFe at cityofsanramon.info/
• $15 entry per entry, plus convenience fee (Non-Refundable)
• Artists can enter up to 3 works in their application.
• Images of the artwork provided in the application must be jpeg file format
• Artist statement describing each entry and how it relates to the theme (200 words or less)
• Selections and award winners will be made by a blind jury (they will not see personal info)

Eligibility Criteria

ELIGIBILITY

• Open to San Ramon residents who wish to enter into the following categories
  • 1. K - 2nd grade: all mediums
  • 2. 3rd - 5th grade: all mediums
  • 3. 6th - 8th Grade: all mediums
  • 4. 9th - 12th grade: all mediums
  • 5. Adults 18 yrs+: all mediums
  • 6. Seniors 55yrs+: all mediums
• Both two-dimensional and three-dimensional work are accepted
• Work is original, conceived, and created entirely by the entering artist (No AI-generated work)
• 2D work may not exceed 30" x 40", including the frame, and be under 40 lbs.
• 3D work should not exceed 18" x 18" x 18" and be under 50 lbs.
• Pieces displayed in last year’s juried exhibits are not eligible for entry
• Work does not contain nudity, violence, or otherwise inappropriate imagery or themes

EXHIBITING STANDARDS

• 2D work will be hung via the walker display system. (www.walkerdisplay.com)
• All work is expected to be dropped off “Exhibit Ready.” with temporary label taped to back
• Artwork inadequately prepared according to instructions will not be included in exhibition
• All entries should be accompanied with the temporary label provided in acceptance packet
• 2D entries must be cleanly framed and wired with D-ring hangers and the wire ends taped
• The wire should not be visible when viewing the piece on the wall
• 2D framed entries should use acrylic/plexiglass covering rather than glass
• Photography should be matted and framed unless printed on metal
• Paintings on Aquaboard (or similar surfaces) cradled panels with a varnished/finished
  protective coating may be displayed without acrylic/plexiglass covering
• Pieces on heavy-duty stretchers with a gallery wrap do not need to be framed. Rather, the canvas should be stapled on the back and the edge should be painted. Floater frames, used for gallery wrap canvases between 1-1/2 inches and 2 inches deep are also suitable
• 3D pieces should be in stable condition
• 3D pieces will be placed on 12" x 12" x 36" pedestals or a display table
• The City will create and post the labels to be used in the show as well as statement labels