April 30 the deadline for submissions
Big Waters Land Trust is inviting local artists of all ages and experience levels to showcase their work during its third annual Community Art Show, the nonprofit announced this week.
“This juried exhibition celebrates Florida’s natural landscapes as seen through the eyes of our creative community’s paintings and drawings,” a news release notes. “All submissions must be Florida-centric and reflect the beauty of our land, water, and wildlife,” it adds.
“Each year, this exhibition becomes a meaningful reflection of how our community connects with and experiences the natural world around them,” said Tianna Boswell-Porter, director of marketing & events at Big Waters Land Trust, in the release. “Through art, we’re able to tell powerful, personal stories about Florida’s landscapes — stories that inspire appreciation and reinforce why protecting these places matters,” she added in the release. “We’re excited to once again provide an opportunity for artists to share their perspective and celebrate the places we all cherish.”
The release notes that a “distinguished panel of jurors will evaluate submissions and curate the final exhibition.” This year’s jurors are “Alicia Brown, a Jamaican contemporary realist painter known for her captivating work that blends technical precision with rich storytelling; Jen Kroeger, a multidisciplinary artist whose vibrant paintings, mixed media, and textile works reflect her love of bold color and the natural world”; and Christa Molinaro, director of exhibitions at the Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College of Art + Design, “who brings more than 20 years of museum experience.”
Artists may submit up to two pieces for consideration, the release points out. Submissions will be evaluated by age category, as follows: Youth (12 and under), Teen (ages 13 through 17), and Adult (18+). The submission window is open through April 30, with a deadline of 11:59 PM on April 30, the release points out.
“Selected works will be on display at Bay Preserve, Big Waters Land Trust’s headquarters,” from June through August, with an opening reception on Wednesday, June 3, from 5 to 7 p.m., the release says. “Registration for this free event is required,” it notes.
For full submission guidelines or to register for the opening reception, visit bigwaterslandtrust.org/artshow26.