Austin Veterans Art Festival (AVAFEST) 2021

The AVAFEST 2021 Exhibition will showcase creative art practices including dance, music, theatre, visual arts, and the written word created by U.S. Veterans, current Military members, and/or their immediate family members. The exhibition will be presented online with selected in-gallery and museum opportunities. The theme is "Using the Arts & Community to Save Veteran Lives."

Artists are invited to submit original creative work in any medium using visual, verbal, written, and/or physical representations. The theme serves as a starting point; artists are encouraged to submit quality work that represents their creative vision, social and cultural perspective, and individual talents. Subject matter does not have to address personal military traumatic experiences, though such submissions will be valued for their courageous voice and empowering message. Each artist may submit up to five pieces per category (dance, music, theatre, visual arts, and the written word). Entry fee is $25.00 per category. All visual artwork must be wired and ready to hang or install and ready to ship if sold during the exhibition run.

The exhibition has three goals: to provide increased access to artwork created by U.S. Veterans, current Military members, and/or their immediate family members through public display; to build public education and community throughout its presentation; and to contribute to the discourse and art history of art created by this community. AVAFEST 2021 will advertise and promote the exhibit, host concurrent opening receptions, and implement educational and community-building programs throughout the exhibition run. Submission deadline is September 1, 2021. Artists will be notified of selection by October 1, 2021. Installation is scheduled for the week of October 10, 2021. High-quality images and videos for online exhibition must arrive no later than October 10, 2021.