Delicate Expressions: An Open Call for Contemporary Art Jewelry

Delicate Expressions is an exhibition that pairs the finely detailed paintings of Karen Tucker Kuykendall with contemporary art jewelry selected through an open call. Kuykendall explores the formal intricacies of Florida's native plant life with a sensibility that is both scientifically precise and playfully irreverent. Close-up views of leaves and flowers serve as stages for unexpected intrusions, while collaged elements are seamlessly woven into naturalistic forms. The exhibition includes jewelry artists selected through this open call who explore the idea of Delicate Expressions through intricate craft, careful observation, and unexpected details. The jewelry pieces reflect a shared interest in intimacy, close looking, and the interplay between natural beauty and personal meaning. Artists are encouraged to interpret the show title through the lens of their own artistic practice.

The exhibition runs from September 11 through November 15, 2025. Awards will be announced on Thursday, October 16, 2025. First Place: $1,000; Second Place: $750; Third Place: $500; Honorable Mention: $250 (two awards). The entry fee is $40 (non-refundable). Artists may submit up to 5 pieces with digital images in JPEG format, 1200 pixels or greater on the longest side, under 5 MB. All work must have been created within the last two years and must not have been previously displayed at Lighthouse ArtCenter. All pieces must be for sale with a 60/40 artist/gallery split. Accepted artwork must arrive at Lighthouse ArtCenter during the week of August 25-29. Artists are responsible for shipping and insurance of accepted works both to and from the exhibition. Unsold works will be packed and shipped or picked up by November 21, 2025.