UNcommon Threads

The South Florida Surface Design Association seeks bold, innovative contemporary fiber work and wearable art that explores unexpected relationships between fiber and other creative disciplines for the exhibition Uncommon Threads: Contemporary Fiber & Wearable Art. This international exhibition celebrates fiber as a medium that pushes boundaries and challenges expectation in contemporary art and design. All artists utilizing both traditional and non-traditional fiber materials and techniques are invited to apply. Collaborative works are welcome.

All formats will be considered, including 2D and 3D works intended for wall display, free-standing or suspended pieces, sculptural and vessel forms, books, basketry, and Art to Wear including clothing, accessories, and jewelry. There are two categories for submitted work: Contemporary Fiber and Art to Wear, with a total of up to $5,000 in cash prizes available. The exhibition will be on display at the Court House Cultural Center Galleries in Stuart, Florida from September 9 – November 1, 2025, with an opening reception on September 12, 2025.

Entry fee is $35 for up to three works. Artists must be 18 years or older and may submit up to three pieces (collaborative works count as a single entry). All work must be original, completed after January 1, 2020, and include natural or synthetic fiber and/or be executed using fiber/textile techniques. Mixed media pieces meeting this requirement will be considered. Work created in a class, workshop, from a kit, or purchased pattern is not eligible. Submit 2-9 images (JPEG/JPG only, 1200 pixels minimum on longest side, maximum 5MB): for 2D work submit two images (overall and close-up); for wearables and 3D pieces submit three images (front, back, and detail). A jury panel will select entries based on originality, creativity, quality and complexity of workmanship, artistry, and impact. Notification of acceptance will be sent via email by June 1, 2025. Shipping to and from the venue is the artist's responsibility. Artists are responsible for insuring work in transit; MartinArts will insure work while in the exhibition galleries. A 25% commission applies to sold work, with payment within 15 business days of the exhibition end.