Artspace Southern Illinois is proud to be the recipient of the 2026 NEA Big Read Grant
Our community book selection is Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom. In celebration of her inspiring example, the themes of our exhibition are: Courage and Freedom.
As part of the Southern Illinois region’s celebration, an exhibition will be on view in October.
Call for Entries
Community Exhibition on the Themes of: Courage and Freedom
Artspace Southern Illinois welcomes community members to submit their artworks that exemplify the themes of Courage and Freedom. This exhibition is part of the 2026 NEA Big Read Grant. Artspace is partnering with five regional libraries in reading Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom. To celebrate her inspiring example, the theme of our exhibition is: Courage and Freedom.
The exhibition will be on view from October 6 to October 31 in the Corridor Gallery at the Carbondale Civic Center, 200 S Illinois Ave, Carbondale. Each artist can submit one or two artworks in any 2D or 3D medium. Note: 3D selections may be limited due to space constraints.
Eligibility
Open call to all artists 18+ years old in the Southern Illinois region.
Submissions
Submissions are limited to two works per person. Two-dimensional pieces in any medium can be submitted. A limited number of three-dimensional works will be accepted. Two-dimensional artwork must be framed by the artist and ready to hang. Pieces should not be larger than 24” in any direction. Heavy framed pieces will not be able to be exhibited. Please submit a $5 entry fee for each artwork submitted. The fee can be waived if it is cost-prohibitive.
How to Submit Artwork
Applications can be submitted electronically through this online form by the deadline Sunday, September 20 at 11:59 pm. All work that is submitted must be original to the artist applying and must not have been shown within the last three years at Artspace. Artspace reserves the right to make all selections to be included in the show. In the event that dropped-off work is unable to be displayed, gallery staff will contact the artist to arrange pickup.
Email notifications of acceptance will be sent by Friday, September 25, by 5 pm
Artwork Drop Off: September 29 – October 3 at Artspace Southern Illinois—304 Cultural Arts Center, during our regular business hours.
Dates to Remember
Online Submission Deadline: Sunday, September 20, 11:59 pm
Email Notifications: Friday, September 25, by 5 pm
Drop off at Artspace Southern Illinois—304 Cultural Arts Center located at: 304 W Walnut Street in Carbondale, September 29 – October 3
Exhibition dates: October 6 - October 31
Reception date: To be announced
Pick up work at Artspace Southern Illinois—304 Cultural Arts Center: November 3 - 7 (during business hours)
About the Corridor Gallery
Learn more about The Corridor Gallery at the Carbondale Civic Center on our Venues page.
Questions
Call us: 618-457-5100 or connect@artspacesouthernillinois.org
Submissions—Must be 18 to Submit
Program made possible by grant funding provided by
