2021 Athenaeum Open: Art Optimism

The Athenaeum Gallery invites artists who live or work in Virginia, Maryland, or the District of Columbia to submit work exploring concepts related to climate change and sustainability. The exhibition theme is "Art Optimism," focusing on work that inspires rather than threatens, celebrates rather than scares, and explores new materials and techniques that present a positive message about climate change and productive ways to meet associated challenges. Artists are encouraged to consider the theme broadly and creatively, including work that reflects opportunities for beneficial impact on the future, inspires action in response to climate change, comments on the fragility of our world, features sustainable or repurposed materials and methods, identifies threats and proposes solutions, or explores the philosophical, cultural, and ecological implications of our impact on the environment.

Submissions must include 1-4 images and a statement explaining how the work fits the theme. All visual media is welcome, but every work must be wall-mounted, fully finished or framed, wired, and ready to be hung with picture hooks. Work must be less than 9 inches deep and lighter than 30 pounds. Works requiring electricity will not be accepted. The exhibition runs September 23 - October 31, 2021. Work must be delivered to the gallery on September 19 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., or September 20 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., or by special arrangement. Unsold works must be picked up on October 31 between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., or by special arrangement.

Total prizes of $3,750 will be awarded: $1,500 for Best in Show, $750 for Honorable Mention, $1,000 for the most effective climate change/sustainability message, and $500 for Popular Choice. The Athenaeum Gallery will retain a 40% commission on works sold and issue payment within thirty days after the show closes. All works will be insured by the Athenaeum Gallery for 100% of the retail price during the exhibition. Entry fee is $40. Artists who do not live or work in Virginia, Maryland, or the District of Columbia are not eligible.