H2O National 2022

H2O National 2022 is a nation-wide exhibition presented by the Virginia Beach Art Center featuring water as its theme. Artists from across the United States are invited to show their relationship to water through visual media. All media are welcome. The exhibition runs June 3-26, 2022, with an opening reception on June 3 from 6-8 pm. The exhibition is juried by Chuck Larivey, a Signature Member of Oil Painters of America, with a total of $2,000 in cash awards: Best in Show ($700), Award of Excellence ($500), Award of Merit ($250), Most Creative ($150), and four Honorable Mentions ($100 each). An awards presentation livestream will be held June 3 at 7 pm on the Virginia Beach Art Center Facebook page.

Eligibility is open to artists age 18 and older residing in the United States and US territories. All work must be original, produced within the last five years, and not previously exhibited at VBAC. All styles and aesthetics are considered. Works must be for sale and remain on the premises for the duration of the exhibition. Artists must include an interpretative statement (limit 700 characters) to be displayed with the artwork. Work limitations: 2D works may not exceed 50" wide including frame; free-standing 3D works may not exceed 24" in length or width; all works cannot exceed 40 pounds. Hanging works must have a wire for hanging (no claw hooks) positioned within the top 1/5th of the frame.

The entry fee is $35 for up to three artworks (non-refundable). Artists may submit up to three images, one per artwork. Shipped works must arrive May 25-29, 2022; hand-delivered works are received May 31, with extra drop-off available May 28-29 by arrangement. Artists are responsible for all shipping costs and must provide pre-paid return labels via UPS or FedEx. The Virginia Beach Art Center retains a 35% commission on sales, with payment to artists within 30 days of exhibition closing. Optional artist talks are scheduled for June 26, 3-4 pm. Work pickup is June 28, 10 am-5 pm. Contact [email protected] for questions.