OPEN CALL FOR ART – Modern Americana

Modern Americana is an exhibition of CSRA based artists in the Augusta & Co. Gallery in Downtown Augusta, GA as part of the America250 celebration. America250 is a nationwide initiative and commemoration of the United States’ 250th anniversary, or Semi-quincentennial, which will occur on July 4, 2026. The effort aims to inspire all Americans to participate in observing the nation’s founding by reflecting on its past, honoring all of its people, and envisioning its future. The program includes state-level and community-based initiatives, like special exhibits, festivals, and opportunities for citizens to share their stories and participate in service projects.

What is Americana? Americana artwork encompasses artistic creations from a multitude of styles that depict or are characteristic of American culture, history, and national identity, often evoking nostalgia and celebrating themes such as nature, folklore, culture, and everyday life. This style includes iconic symbols like the American flag, both historical and everyday figures, and idealized rural landscapes, creating a warm and timeless visual narrative of the United States. Known artists whose work reflect an Americana narrative include Augusta native Jasper Johns, Ed Hopper, Anna Mary Robertson “Grandma” Moses, William Harper, Keith Herring, and Faith Ringgold.

A modernization of this style by CSRA based artists, with attributes of Augusta’s own diverse and historic cultural identity within the United States, will act as a conduit for stories of the modern American. Sharing a broad collection of stories, emotions, sentiments and cultures will create a nearly whole depiction of what it is to be an Augustan and American. Our stories, in real time.

Local area artists are encouraged to submit proposals for not-yet complete artwork or finished artwork that reflects the above themes to be displayed in the Augusta & Co. Gallery from June 25 – October 1, 2026, with a reception on July 3, 2026 from 5-7:00 p.m.

Deadline to submit: March 27, 2026 by 11:59pm

TO APPLY VISIT : https://augustaarts.info/modern-americana-app

This will give artists submitting proposals for not yet complete works time time to finish their pieces.

The Augusta & Co. Gallery processes all sales. Artists receive 60% of listed sales of their work, with 40% going to the Arts Council and Augusta & Co. as a commission to help cover the cost of managing and promoting the show and hosting the reception.

Below are required to participate in this exhibition:

1. Due to limited space, only two artworks may be submitted per artist.

2. Artwork must be family friendly (no nudity or violence) and within the theme.

3. Selected artists are must bring their finished work to drop off at installation on June 25, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. No work will be accepted ahead of installation.

4. Participating artists are encouraged to help promote the exhibition in their own social media, newsletters, websites, etc.

5. Pieces must be no larger than 48″ in any direction. This includes the frame.

6. The average sale price for this gallery is $400 or less. Artists should consider this, and the commission, when determining pricing for their piece. There are no set pricing requirements.

7. All mediums are accepted, including sculpture, ceramics, painting, photography, etc. 3D works must be able to fit within 1 sq ft. All other works should be able to hang from the walker display system via wire or a French cleat. For more information on this system, please click here.

8. Participating artists will be required to fill out a W9 and contract. This can be done prior to but by no later than, drop off day.

9. Artists are encouraged to join the Greater Augusta Arts Council. For more information on membership, visit www.augustaarts.com

10. All artwork should be labeled on the back with the title of the work and artists name.

12. Artists are encouraged to bring business cards to display with their work in the gallery.

Contact us with any questions as to suitable art or service packages for submissions. Email Heather at heather@augustaarts.com