John G. Riley Center and Museum – Call for Artists

CALL FOR ARTISTS

The John G. Riley Center & Museum invites local and emerging artists to submit proposals for original two-dimensional artwork exploring themes related to Leon County Civil Rights history, social movements, justice, resistance, and community memory from the Civil Rights Era.

Three artists will be selected to create commissioned works for inclusion in the museum’s 2027 exhibition (opening in late January 2027).

• Emerging and early-career artists are encouraged to apply.
• Open exclusively to artists residing in Leon County, Florida.
• Portfolio of completed work required.

• Original two-dimensional works in painting, drawing, photography, or mixed media.
• Artwork must be designed for wall display.
• All submitted works must be ready to hang and exhibition ready.
• Artwork must meet the museum’s specified size requirements.

• Artwork must directly interpret the history, people, events, or enduring impact of the Civil Rights Movement in Leon County.
• Artwork must be completed and ready for exhibition display.
• Maximum dimensions: approximately 4 ft × 4 ft (122 × 122 cm).

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• Artist statement (250 words maximum, PDF)
• Artwork proposal (250 words maximum, PDF)
• Portfolio (5–10 examples of previous work)
• Images of proposed artwork (JPEG, 300 dpi recommended)
• Contact information

SELECTION CRITERIA

• Artistic quality and originality
• Relevance to the exhibition theme and Leon County Civil Rights history
• Visual impact and interpretive strength
• Suitability for exhibition display

ARTIST COMMISSION

• Each selected artist will receive a commission of $2,000.
• A Commission Agreement will be executed prior to the start of the project.
• Payment will be made in three installments:
  • 25% upon execution of the Commission Agreement.
  • 25% upon approval of a progress review (approximately halfway through completion).
  • 50% upon delivery, acceptance of the completed artwork, and transfer of ownership to the John G. Riley Center & Museum.

TIMELINE

• Application Deadline: July 31, 2026
• Artist Notification: August 15, 2026
• Commission Agreements Executed: Late August 2026
• Concept Approval (if required): Early September 2026
• Mid-Project Review: Early November 2026
• Final Artwork Due: December 15, 2026
• Exhibition Installation: January 2027
• Exhibition Opening: January 28, 2027

APPLY HERE

https://forms.gle/DVBykYR1gSkxERt1A