Statewide

In response to the Illinois State Fair eliminating the professional visual artist exhibition and competition, the Springfield Art Association has created an alternative: Statewide. Professional artists ages 21 and above who are residents of Illinois are invited to submit up to three works of art in any media. All work must be original and completed in the last three years. The exhibition runs from August 9 through August 31, 2024 in the M. G. Nelson Gallery at the Springfield Art Association.

There will be two judges, one for all 2D media and one for all 3D media. Guen Montgomery of University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign is the 2D judge. The 3D judge is yet to be named. A total of $2,600 in prizes will be awarded: First, Second, and Third Place awards will be presented in both 2D and 3D categories, with one overall Best of Show also chosen. An opening reception and awards presentation will be held on Friday, August 9 from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at the SAA.

The entry fee is $30 (non-refundable). Artists may submit up to three works with one image per work. Work samples may include 1-3 images and 0-3 videos. Notification of acceptance will be emailed on July 10. The deadline for receipt of work is August 5. Work will be shipped out on September 4. The Springfield Art Association reserves the right to photograph all exhibited works for promotional and educational purposes.