Statewide 2025

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 show will run from August 8 through August 30, 2025 in the M. G. Nelson Gallery at the Springfield Art Association.

A reception and awards presentation will be held on Friday, August 8 from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at the SAA. 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. One overall Best of Show will also be chosen. The two judges are Sarah Smelser, Printmaking Professor from ISU and award winner in last year's Statewide exhibition, and Albion Stafford, Ceramics Professor from ISU.

Entry fee is $30 (non-refundable). Artists may submit up to three works with one image per work. Work must be received by August 2. Notification of acceptance will be emailed on June 16. The Springfield Art Association reserves the right to photograph all exhibited works for promotional and educational purposes.