Spell it Out

The Museum of Northern California Art (monca) is seeking original artworks not previously exhibited at monca. Artworks should incorporate text as a central component, where text, words, or phrases are integral to the piece and contribute significantly to its overall message or aesthetic, or feature innovative use of lettering, typography, or calligraphic elements.

Entry fee is $15 for one entry and $10 for each additional entry, with a maximum of 8 entries. All fees are non-refundable. Accepted work must be delivered ready to hang or display. Work to hang on the wall must be fitted with framing wire. All work must be dry and clean. No sawtooth hangers are permitted. 3D 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. Submissions must include 1-8 images.

Deadline for entries and payment is Sunday, September 29 at 5 pm. Jury results will be notified by email on or before October 20, 2024. Artwork delivery is October 31-November 3 and November 7-10 during museum hours (11am-5pm). The exhibition opens Thursday, November 14, with a free community reception Friday, November 15, 6-8 pm. The exhibition closes Sunday, January 12, 2025. Artwork pickup is January 12 at 5pm or during museum hours January 16-19 and January 23-26. Works left beyond January 26, 2025 will be assessed a storage fee of $5 per piece per day (Thursday-Sunday). Works left beyond February 27, 2025 will become property of monca. Postage, packaging, and shipping insurance are the artist's responsibility. If work is to be shipped back, the artist must provide a pre-paid mailing label. monca will be diligent in the care of artwork but is not responsible for loss or damage in transit. If you wish to sell your exhibited work, provide a retail price reflecting a 50% museum commission. 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.