2026 Emerging Perspectives Exhibition

The Emerging Perspectives Exhibition is a juried exhibition for artists aged 18 to 35, created in response to a gap in participation from young adults in local exhibitions. This national competition accepts 1-3 original artworks per artist, with no theme, size, or media restrictions. Entry fees are $10 for non-members and $5 for members.

Accepted artists will have their work displayed from April 4-26, 2026, with the opportunity to win a grand prize award of $500 or a people's choice award of $250. The 2026 juror is Steven Pearson, Joan Develin Coley Chair in Creative Expression and Professor of Studio Art at McDaniel College. Judging occurs in two rounds: virtual selection for exhibition acceptance, followed by in-person judging for the Grand Prize Award after installation.

All artwork must be original, created within the past two years, and not previously displayed at the Delaplaine. Two-dimensional work must be professionally wired and ready to hang with no sawtooth hangers. Artwork delivery is March 23-29, 2026, and pickup is April 26-27, 2026. The Delaplaine will insure artwork during the exhibition period. Accepted artwork will be announced on March 4, with a Juror's Talk and Award Announcement on April 4, 2-3 p.m.