Art From the Heartland 2026

The Indianapolis Art Center is calling for entries from artists 18 or older living in the Midwest for a juried exhibition. This exhibition seeks to highlight the richness found in contemporary Midwest makers and the wide variety of techniques, styles, and aesthetics of the region, featuring works in a variety of media ranging from traditional processes to contemporary and new media processes.

Eligibility: Open to all artists over 18 residing in Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, Minnesota, Iowa, or Missouri. Work must be made within the last two years and cannot have been previously shown at the Art Center. All work must be original and made by the artist or artist team; collaborative works are eligible. All media are eligible, though installation artists should contact the center before applying. 2D artwork must not weigh more than 250 pounds or be bigger than 10' x 10'.

Awards: Cash awards total $4,000. Best in Show - $1,500; Best in 2D (includes video) - $500; Best in 3D (includes installation) - $500; Five Honorable Mention Awards - $200 each. Two Curator's Choice Award winners will each receive $250 and a solo exhibition at the Indianapolis Art Center. Awards will be announced at the Opening Reception. Entry fee: $35 for submission of two pieces; $5 additional for each submission up to six pieces total. Exhibition opens June 22, 2026 and closes September 13, 2026. Opening reception: Thursday, June 25, 5-8pm.