Tilting West: Defining A New Legacy

Tilting West: Defining A New Legacy is a large-scale group exhibition presented by the Arvada Center Galleries in partnership with Tilt West. The exhibition invites contemporary artists with current residency in the Mountain States (Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming) to explore and reinterpret the American Western genre through a contemporary lens. The exhibition challenges traditional notions of Western art, encouraging work that reflects diverse perspectives, materials, and themes, from environmental concerns to social commentary. All media is welcome, and artists working in unconventional forms or conceptual approaches are especially encouraged to apply. Installations, performances, and new-media pieces are encouraged. The exhibition will occupy the Arvada Center's Main Gallery and Upper Gallery from June 4 - August 23, 2026.

Eligibility is open to all artists over age 18 with current residence in the Mountain States. Artwork must be original and not previously shown at the Arvada Center. The non-refundable entry fee is $35 for up to 6 pieces. Limited entrance fee scholarships are available for artists experiencing economic hardship, artists who identify as Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), and artists who identify as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Applicants should email [email protected] to request a scholarship. Work samples may include up to 6 images, 6 audio files, and/or 6 video files (minimum 1 total sample required). Images must be JPG files only, labeled as Lastname_PieceTitle.jpg.

Shipped work should arrive no later than May 6, 2026, or may be hand-delivered May 14-15, 2026 from 9:30am - 4:30pm. Artists must provide pre-paid return shipping labels. The Arvada Center provides insurance for artworks while on premises but is not responsible for damage or loss during transport. If artwork is sold, the Arvada Center retains a 40% commission and artists receive payment after the close of the exhibition. Artwork does not need to be for sale to be selected. Email notification of acceptance will be sent by March 27, 2026. The opening reception is June 4, 2026, and unsold works may be picked up August 25-26, 2026.