Call for Entries

“Inside These Walls”

What happens inside our building shapes our community—now we want the outside of the building to tell that story.

The Adams County Arts Council invites members to submit original artwork for a major exterior installation reflecting the creativity, collaboration, and purpose found within our walls.

We are seeking artwork that captures the spirit of what we do every day and transforms it into a compelling public image.

Contest Overview

The Adams County Arts Council (ACAC) invites current members to submit original artwork for installation on the front of the Arts Council building.

The selected artwork will serve as a public-facing landmark that visually represents the work, mission, programs, activities, and creative spirit found within our walls. This installation will help tell the story of who we are and what happens here every day.

Contest Theme

“Inside These Walls”

Artists are encouraged to create artwork inspired by:

• Programs and activities inside the building
• Member participation and engagement
• Workshops and classes
• Collaboration and creative exchange
• Performances and exhibitions
• Community involvement
• Creativity in action
• The mission and impact of the Adams County Arts Council

The artwork should help viewers immediately understand the energy, purpose, and creative life of the organization.

Artistic Direction

Submissions may be:

• Literal or abstract
• Colorful or minimal
• Contemporary or traditional

All entries should clearly connect to the work, mission, and community of the Arts Council.

Examples of themes and imagery may include:

• People creating art
• Hands at work
• Shared creative spaces
• Artistic tools and creative processes
• Transformation and imagination
• Symbols representing artistic disciplines

Eligibility

• Open to current Adams County Arts Council members only
• Original artwork only

Submission Requirements

1. Artwork Proposal

Please include:

• Digital rendering or image of proposed artwork
• Proposed dimensions and orientation

2. Artist Statement (200–400 words)

Explain:

• How the artwork represents activities inside the building
• The connection between the artwork and the organization’s mission
• Why the imagery is meaningful to the community

3. Sizing and Production

Artists may submit artwork in any size provided it can be scaled appropriately for exterior display.

The Adams County Arts Council will be responsible for:

• Printing the final artwork image
• Production preparation
• Installation of the selected artwork

Selection Process

Phase 1 — Jury Review 

A selection committee will review all submissions and choose finalists.

Phase 2 — Member & Public Showcase – Debuted at July First Friday (July 10)

Finalist proposals will be exhibited for community viewing, feedback, and voting.

Final Selection – Announced Friday, July 17

The jury will make the final decision, taking community input into consideration.

Installation – August 5

Award

The selected artist will receive:

• Artwork featured on the exterior of the Arts Council building
• Artist recognition and signage
• $250 Cash award per piece
• Featured artist profile in organizational publications and media

Important Guidelines

• Artwork must be appropriate for public viewing.
• No copyrighted material may be used without permission.
• AI-generated content must be fully disclosed and approved by the selection committee.
• Artwork must be adaptable for large-scale exterior production.
• The Arts Council reserves the right to request reasonable modifications related to installation, safety, or production requirements.

Submission Deadline

June 30, 2026

The selected artwork will be prominently displayed on the front of the building and recognized as a signature visual representation of the organization.