2025 New Jersey Arts Annual: Artist as Activist

Rowan University Art Gallery & Museum invites artists to submit work for the 2025 New Jersey Arts Annual with the theme "Artist as Activist." The exhibition seeks work that reflects artistic thoughts and responses to the concept of artist as activist—artists who harness the power of creativity to inspire social and political action. The gallery welcomes work that tackles topics including human rights and access to resources, environmental awareness and justice, racial and gender equalities, health and well-being, and the political and cultural climate. Work may serve as vehicles for expressing advocacy, highlighting injustices, and envisioning alternatives.

Eligibility: All artists over the age of 18 who work or live in New Jersey are eligible. All mediums are eligible. Work must be completed within the past five years, exhibition-ready, and not previously shown in an Arts Annual. Unfinished or unrealized works will not be accepted. Work depicting harmful, unjust, or disparaging imagery of anyone or any group will be disqualified.

Applications require a minimum of 5 and maximum of 8 images, with optional video submissions (0-2 videos). Total work samples must be between 5 and 10. Applications must include a professional bio (500 words maximum), current resume, and artist statement (150 words maximum). There is no entry fee. Selected artists will receive a $500 stipend. The exhibition runs June 7 - August 2, 2025, with an opening reception on June 6, 2025, 4-7 pm. Rowan University Art Gallery & Museum will coordinate shipping and insure all artwork at fair market value. An exhibition catalogue will be produced featuring all participating artists. Jurors include Brittany Webb (PAFA) and Dejay Duckett (African American Museum in Philadelphia).