39th Annual Northern National Art Competition

The 39th Northern National Art Competition will be held in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, from June 18 - July 31, 2026, at the Nicolet College Art Gallery. This renowned national juried competition is a cooperative venture between Nicolet College Arts & Enrichment and the Northern Arts Council (NAC). The competition strives to showcase a cross section of contemporary art in a variety of two-dimensional mediums. More than $8,500 in prize money will be awarded, including three $1,000 Awards of Excellence. Awards are based upon the actual artwork.

The competition is open to all US resident artists 18 years or older. Each artist may submit images of recent, original artwork in any medium, including photography, fiber, and mixed media. All artwork must be 2D and hangable with a maximum depth of 6 inches. There is no theme. The $35 entry fee entitles the artist to submit one or two pieces for consideration (one image per artwork). Images must accurately represent the work entered. Only original work is accepted; no reproductions will be accepted. Artists must disclose if Artificial Intelligence has been used in any way for the creation of the artwork. Any artwork submitted and awarded in previous Northern National competitions is ineligible. Single panel artwork is expected; diptychs will be considered and nothing with more than 3 panels as a triptych. There is no maximum size for length x width, but artists with pieces larger than 6 feet in any dimension should contact the gallery in advance.

Selected artists will have their work exhibited at the Nicolet College Art Gallery until Friday, July 31, and artwork will be available for purchase if desired. All proceeds of sales are assigned to the artist. Entries may be hand delivered on Friday, May 29. Shipped work must arrive by Friday, May 22 and must include a pre-paid return shipping label. Selected art must remain for the entire exhibition and awards will be distributed after the close of the show. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, June 18.