2026 National Juried Exhibition

Every May The Delaplaine hosts our National Juried Exhibition, showcasing work from artists all over the country in a vast display of media, talent and exploration. Accepted artists have their work on display through the months of May, June and into July and have the opportunity to win a grand prize award of $1,000, second place for $500, third place for $250 or honorable mention award for $125. Exhibition dates are May 2–July 12, 2026, with the Juror's Talk and Award Announcement on May 2, 2–3 p.m.

The 2026 juror is Kyle Hackett, who earned his MFA from the LeRoy E. Hoffberger School of Painting at Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) and his BFA in Fine Arts as a McNair Scholar from the University of Delaware. The competition will be judged in two rounds: the first round conducted virtually through the Delaplaine's online exhibit entry portal to determine accepted artworks, and the second round jurying for awards conducted in person after artwork installation.

There are no theme, size or media requirements or restrictions for this exhibition. All artwork must be original in design and personal execution, created within the past two years, and not previously displayed at the Delaplaine. Entry fee is $35.00 for non-members, with 1 to 3 work samples required. Accepted artwork notification will be announced on April 2, and all accepted work must be delivered to 40 S. Carroll Street in Frederick, MD from April 20-26, 2026.