Potomac River Life

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the enactment of the Clean Water Act, The Athenaeum Gallery invites DC, Virginia, and Maryland artists to explore concepts related to the Potomac River, its vital role in the regional ecosystem, and the importance of working toward a clean, healthy river. Work can be literal or abstract, with themes that might depict life on/in the water, inspire or educate people to take action regarding river health, comment on the fragility of the Potomac River and its role in the regional ecosystem, propose creative solutions for improving things regarding the Potomac, or celebrate the Potomac River. All work selected will relate to the theme "Potomac River Life." If something is submitted that represents rivers in general or a different body of water, if it could be the Potomac, it is eligible.

Eligibility is limited to artists who live or work in Virginia, Maryland, or the District of Columbia. Work must be available from July 14 through August 21, 2022. All visual media is welcome, but every work must be wall-mounted, fully finished or framed, wired, and ready to be hung with picture hooks. Work must be less than 9 inches deep and lighter than 30 pounds. Works that require electricity will not be accepted. Submit 1-3 images of the work along with title, media, dimensions, and sale price. An explanatory statement is optional. Entry fee is $40.

Works will be selected by Athenaeum Gallery Director Twig Murray based on aesthetic excellence, mastery of media, creativity and thoughtfulness, and relevance to the exhibition theme. Artists will be notified by June 9, 2022. Work must be delivered to the Athenaeum on July 10 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., or by special arrangement. The Athenaeum Gallery will retain a 50% commission on works sold (with 35% remaining with the Athenaeum and 15% going to the Potomac Riverkeeper Network), and will issue a check for 50% of the sales price to the artist no longer than thirty days after the show closes. Unsold works must be picked up on August 21 between 4 and 6 p.m., or by special arrangement. The Potomac Riverkeepers Network and the Potomac Conservancy will develop relevant programming and events during the show.