Prospectus – Artist Selection Process

Prospective artists drop off 5 pieces on Thursday between 12-5 pm. The Committee meets the following Friday morning. Pick up of work is Friday 12-5pm or Saturday 10am-1pm.

The RAC Exhibiting Artist Selection Committee reviews the work of prospective Exhibiting Artist Members three times a year (February, May and September). 
It is comprised of a carefully selected, anonymous group of 5-7 highly qualified and experienced volunteer artists and teaching artists. When reviewing work, the committee is looking for artists whose body of work meets certain criteria, with the goal being to add original and exciting voices to the current Exhibiting Membership of the Rowayton Arts Center.

There is no application fee, however you must complete an online application form.

We allow a maximum of 10 applicants per session, so please apply early.

Artist Selection by nature is a subjective process. The committee takes their responsibility of reviewing each submission very seriously, and makes their decisions based on a majority of committee-member votes for each applicant. If an artist is not accepted, there is no appeal process, however the artist may reapply any number of times and is encouraged to do so.

Evaluation of Work

For all categories of media, a submission of five works completed within approximately the last five years is required.

The committee votes for each applicant based on the following criteria, which all have equal weight and are in no particular order of importance:

• Skill – A level of technical proficiency and confidence evident in the chosen medium. Work demonstrates an understanding of design, values, composition, light and shade, and color harmony.

• Originality and Creativity –Body of work expresses your unique vision in choice of subject matter, use of materials or emotional content. Work engages the viewer on a deeper level.

• Presentation – Work is finished, thoughtfully considered and professionally presented, even if unframed.

• Artistic Voice – The submitted work demonstrates clear messaging and an individual point of view. Artist statement should align with the work presented.

• Consistency – Vision and commitment to producing and submitting a unified body of work. All five pieces submitted need to relate in terms of medium, skill level, style and presentation.

Artists must provide a brief artist statement (500 words or less) speaking to the submitted body of work or process. Also, in 150 words or less, please list any internships, accomplishments, honors, awards, residencies, mentors, influences or any other pertinent information you would like us to know about your work. PLEASE DO NOT SUBMIT A BIO. You will find an area to submit the artist statement as well as any special recognition on the application form.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Please Note:

• The artist affirms that the artist is the sole owner of the artwork.
• The artist agrees that their work is original to the artist and does not infringe upon or violate any copyright. If you have used a photograph other than your own for reference in your work, please be sure you have permission to use it or make sure your work is a significant degree of departure from the original, so as not to be recognizable in your work.
• No giclées, other than for photography or digital art.
• Artwork generated by AI is not acceptable.

PAINTINGS

• Five original works, completed within the past five years.
• No larger than 40” x 40”.
• Professionally presented, framing optional.
• Dust free and clean.

2-D MIXED MEDIA

• Five original works, completed within the past five years.
• No larger than 40” x 40”.
• Professionally presented, framing optional. Consider a presentation case, box or
• portfolio. Separate work with acetate sheets and consider adding cotton gloves for handling.
• Dust free and clean.

PHOTOGRAPHY

• Five original works, completed within the past 5 years.
• Print to exhibition size, but no larger than 40” x 40”. No working prints please.
• Professionally presented, framing optional. Consider a presentation case, box or portfolio. Separate work with acetate sheets and consider adding cotton gloves for handling.
• Dust free and clean.

WORKS ON PAPER (drawing, printmaking, watercolor)

• Five original works, completed within the past 5 years (no giclée copies).
• No larger than 40” x 40”.
• Professionally presented, framing optional. Consider a presentation case, box or portfolio. Separate work with acetate sheets and consider adding cotton gloves for handling.
• Dust free and clean.

SCULPTURE/TEXTILES

• Five original works ( 3 physical works plus 2 photographed from various angles).
• Size restrictions: 3’ x 3’.
• Specify how work is meant to be viewed (e.g. pedestal/ceiling mount, etc.)

If selected as an Exhibiting Artist Member, an annual fee of $65 will provide you with the opportunity for inclusion in four member-only shows per year (judged by local art professionals and curators), an inclusive community where you will meet fellow artists at openings and volunteer events as well as an online gallery presence. We currently have over 200 exhibiting members.