CSU Spur Juried Exhibition - What Does Water Mean to You?

CSU Spur invites artists of all backgrounds and experience levels to submit artworks for a juried exhibition celebrating the intersection of community, sustainability and innovation. The exhibition seeks compelling works that explore ideas of environmental stewardship, scientific curiosity and the power of local storytelling through art. The theme for this year's exhibition is "What Does Water Mean to You?" and artworks should focus on the many ways water shapes our lives. CSU Spur is a public-facing campus dedicated to education, sustainability and community engagement, aiming to foster dialogue between artists, scientists and the public to inspire meaningful connections around our shared environment.

The exhibition is open to artists working in any medium, including but not limited to painting, sculpture, photography, digital art, fiber arts and mixed media. Artists may submit up to three artworks per application, with up to three images per artwork (maximum nine images total). All works must be original and created within the past five years. Both emerging and established artists are encouraged to apply, with residents of the 80216-zip code particularly encouraged. A panel of three to five artists, scientists, and/or community members will review submissions, with selected artists notified by Friday, April 10, 2026.

The exhibition runs from June 1, 2026 through October 31, 2026 at CSU Spur Campus in Denver. Selected works must be dropped off in person during the week of May 4-8, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and must be ready to hang on a wall with security hardware. The entry fee is $10.00, and submissions are due by 11:59 p.m. MT on Saturday, February 28, 2026. CSU Spur will provide promotional materials and may host an opening reception featuring artist talks and interactive programming.