16th Annual Grand Canyon Celebration of Art

Celebration of Art at Grand Canyon National Park is an annual event that includes a week of plein air activity, an online auction, and a public opening that debuts a four-month-long exhibition and sale of participating artists' work. The event provides a vibrant experience for visitors, a venue for artists inspired by the canyon, and a successful fundraiser to benefit a dedicated art venue at the park.

Participating artists must submit one Grand Canyon-themed studio piece for the exhibit, with a professional-quality electronic image (300 dpi at 9 x 12 inches) due by March 31, 2024, for the exhibition catalog. Artists must also complete a minimum of five plein air paintings on-site at the Grand Canyon between September 7-14, 2024, featuring Grand Canyon National Park subject matter. Up to ten additional Grand Canyon-themed artworks produced prior to the event are allowed for backup display and sale with prior approval. All completed works must be suitably framed and ready to hang with D-rings and picture wire or suitable hanging device attached.

Application requirements include a completed entry form, one-page résumé with contact information, three to eight professional-quality JPEG images of plein air artwork (minimum 300 DPI, with at least one Grand Canyon image painted from the Rim), and a non-refundable entry fee of $45. All entries must be received by January 15, 2024. The event is open to artists 18 years and older with plein air experience and experience painting the Grand Canyon from the rim. A panel of three to five jurors will select four to six artists who, together with returning and invited artists, will comprise the 2024 participants. Notification of acceptance will be emailed no later than February 9, 2024. The public opening reception is September 15, 2024, with the exhibition and sale running through January 20, 2025. The Grand Canyon Conservancy retains a 50 percent commission on all sales, with payments mailed to artists on a monthly schedule. Artists are responsible for lodging, transportation, and the cost of returning unsold artwork. Awards include People's Choice Award, Artists' Choice Award, and Best of Show.