RI State Health Laboratory - Call for Art

The Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA), in conjunction with the new RI State Health Laboratory (RISHL), invites Rhode Island artists to submit work for a 6-month solo exhibition. The exhibition will be displayed in the gallery corridor of the new State Health Laboratory at 150 Richmond Street in Providence's Jewelry District. The corridor is 60 feet long by approximately 7 feet wide with 6 available walls (each approximately 5 feet wide by 13 feet high). The space features a hanging system, dedicated lighting, hallway seating, and UV-protective windows visible at sidewalk level. Selected artists will receive a $2,500 honorarium for the 6-month artwork loan.

Artwork that sits at the intersection of art, science, innovation, and discovery is desired. The panel hopes for work that celebrates these themes and could explore nature, environment, science, innovation, discovery, health, safety, or wonder. Artwork might connect to the natural environment such as water, air, land, botany, biology, or aspects of health and safety. The selection panel will evaluate artworks based on appropriateness for the facility, artistic vibrancy, and fit for the available spaces. Two exhibitors will be selected for the first year (July 2025-June 2026), with the first exhibit running July 2025-January 2026 and the second January 2026-June 2026.

Eligibility is limited to Rhode Island artists who are 18 years or older, domiciled in Rhode Island for at least one year, and legal U.S. residents with a tax identification number. Undergraduate students are not eligible. Applications must include contact information, a 1-2 paragraph statement describing how the submitted work relates to RISHL themes, and 6 artworks from your portfolio labeled with title, dimensions, year, medium, and any special hanging requirements. Artwork must be displayable on an Arakawa hanging system and must not weigh more than 65 lbs. Artwork up to 5 feet wide can be accommodated. No weapons, weapon materials, weapon suggestions, or profanity are permitted. Artists are asked to exercise discretion with works containing nudity or addressing racial, ethnic, political, or religious issues. Applications close April 14, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. MDT.