Don't Kill the Messenger

The Museum of Northern California Art (monca) is seeking original artworks, not previously exhibited at monca, that carry a message: whispered truths, layered meanings, quiet resistance, or declarations that won't be ignored. The museum welcomes the subtle and the striking, the personal and the political—any work that reaches beyond the surface to tell us something you want us to hear. No giclée prints of original art/non-photographic art or AI-generated work will be accepted.

Eligibility is limited to original works created by artists residing in Northern California, defined as San Jose and all points north, east, and west to the state border. Refunds will not be given to those who enter but do not live in this region. The entry fee is $15 for one entry and $10 for each additional entry, with a maximum of 8 entries. All fees are non-refundable. Work samples should include 1-8 images and up to 3 videos.

Accepted work must be delivered ready to hang or display during August 14-17 or August 21-24 during museum hours (11am-5pm). Work to hang on the wall must be fitted with framing wire for the cable and hook system; sawtooth hangers will be disqualified. Three-dimensional work must fit on a pedestal (which monca can provide) or the artist may provide other means of display. Artist's name, phone, and title of work must be on the back of each artwork. All work must be dry and clean. The exhibition opens August 28 with a reception on August 29 (6-8pm) and closes October 12, 2025. All exhibited artworks must remain in the exhibition until closing. Jury results will be notified by email on or before August 4, 2025. Artwork pickup is October 12 at 5pm or during museum hours October 16-19 and October 23-26. Works left beyond October 26 will be assessed a storage fee of $5 per piece per day (Thursday-Sunday). Postage, packaging, and shipping insurance are the artist's responsibility. If work is shipped back, the artist must provide a pre-paid mailing label.