Against the Grain

Florida CraftArt announces Against the Grain, a curated exhibition celebrating the timeless art of woodworking while pushing the boundaries of tradition. This innovative exhibition highlights cutting-edge concepts, contemporary techniques, and the evolving relationship between function and form. The exhibition seeks furniture, sculpture, utilitarian objects, and more, revealing the unique beauty of wood as a medium and the boundless creativity that skilled hands and meticulous craftsmanship can achieve. Curated by Tampa-based furniture maker and artist Kurt Raschke, the exhibition will be on view at Florida CraftArt in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida, showcasing contemporary wood artists from across the nation. Against the Grain is a hybrid open-call and invitational exhibition, combining artists invited directly by the curator with artists chosen from the open call-for-entry.

Eligibility is open to artists living in the United States. All artwork must include wood as the primary medium but may include other media as well. Artwork must be original in concept, design, and execution; small production studio work will be considered, but work created in a class, workshop, or from a kit or purchased pattern is not eligible. Artwork must be made within the last 5 years and cannot have been previously exhibited with FCA. Each artist may submit up to 3 artworks. Entry fee is $25 for up to 3 works ($15 for Florida CraftArt members). Submission deadline is Friday, July 18 at 11:59pm MT. Acceptance notification will be sent by Monday, August 4. Exhibition dates are September 13-October 25, 2025, with an opening reception and award announcements on Saturday, September 13, 6-8pm.

Artwork receiving is in person on Sunday, August 31; Tuesday, September 2; or Wednesday, September 3 during regular business hours (10am-5:30pm), or by shipping (must be received by Friday, August 29). Artists are responsible for all incoming and outgoing shipping costs. FCA will insure artwork for 55% of the retail value while in possession. Artists receive 55% of the retail price for sold artwork; FCA receives 45%. Payment is made by the end of the month following the sale via mailed check. Artwork pick-up is in person on Sunday, October 26 (12-5pm), Monday, October 27 (10am-5:30pm), or Tuesday, October 28 (10am-5:30pm), or by shipping within 7 days of exhibition close. For questions, contact [email protected] or call 727-821-7391.