AMERICA’S 250: Reflections on the American Experience
A Juried Exhibition Celebrating the Nation’s Story
June 23, 2026 -- August 1, 2026

Theme
Coinciding with the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026, America’s 250: Reflections on the American Experience invites Michigan artists to create works that explore the nation’s identity from personal, historical, and imaginative perspectives.

Artists are encouraged to reflect on what America means to them—its ideals, contradictions, communities, and cultural landscapes—through visual storytelling. Submitted works should present an authentic and thoughtful expression of the artist’s relationship with the country. This juried exhibition will serve as both a creative dialogue and a shared reflection on America’s evolving narrative.

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​We request artists submit pieces that reflect their version of America, or America through their eyes.

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Juror

Our lead juror, Michael Dixon, an award-winning artist and Eastend board member, will be part of the curating team for the show. Dixon is a full professor and Chair of the Art & Art History Department at Albion College in Albion, Michigan. Read more about him here.

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Award Recognition
All selected artwork will be reviewed by a panel of jurors. From these, the top entries will receive award recognition. Winning artists will be announced during the public opening reception.

Award levels:

• First Place: $400

• Second Place: $250

• Third Place: $100

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Art Submission Procedures

To be considered, artists must submit the following materials via Eastend’s online portal during the submission period:

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• Artist’s name

• Title of each piece (up to three submissions allowed)

• Medium and dimensions

• Up to three high-resolution images per piece

• Artist Statement

• Optional artist bio (max 200 words)

• Preferred delivery method: shipped or hand-delivered

• Entry Fee: $40 for non-members | Free with annual membership

 

Submitted Art Requirements​

• Artwork must have been created after January 1, 2025

• Wall-mounted pieces must be ready to hang and framed if on paper

• Sculptures must be freestanding and may be of any size

• Suggested wall art dimensions: 12 x 12 to 24 x 26 inches

 

Selected works will be professionally exhibited in Eastend’s Larson Exhibition Room. Artists whose work is selected will be notified by March 31, 2026 via email from Eastend staff and provided with instructions for delivery.

Instructions for Selected Artists

• All accepted artwork must be either shipped or hand-delivered by June 12, 2026 no later than 5:00 PM EST.

• Address: Eastend Arts Center, 143 W Michigan Ave, Marshall, MI 49068

• Artwork must be packaged securely in a reusable container suitable for return shipping if needed.

• Include installation instructions if your piece requires specific hardware, orientation, or assembly.

• Retail price must be clearly labeled and should factor in Eastend’s 40% commission.

• Artist statements should include how your art is related to the theme America's 250: Reflections on the American Experience. Statements must be included with the application.

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Important Dates:

Start creating new art: Now!

Submit applications: February 2, 2026 through March 1, 2026

Jurors select awardees by March 20, 2026

Awardees notified: March 31, 2026

Art due at Eastend Arts Center: June 12, 2026

Art picked up from Eastend Art Center: August 7, 2026

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Sales & End of Exhibition Procedures

• Eastend retains a 40% commission on all works sold during the exhibition. Artists will receive 60% of the sale price by check within 30 days of the exhibition closing.

• Unsold works will be returned starting the week of August 4, 2026.

• Artists are responsible for shipping costs, payable via check or credit card.

 

Contact Information

For questions or clarification, contact Jennifer at jcd@eastendart.org