Call for Art: “Birds Take Flight” – an exploration of avian-inspired creativity
CALL DEADLINE DECEMBER 2, 2024

The upcoming art exhibition, "Birds Take Flight," invites artists of all disciplines to submit their bird-themed works for a show in January 2025. Birds have long been powerful symbols of freedom, transformation, and connection to nature, making them a rich source of inspiration for artists. Whether real or imagined, birds provide a canvas for creativity that bridges the gap between the natural world and artistic expression. This call for art celebrates the diversity of interpretations that artists can bring to life through various mediums, reflecting the beauty, symbolism, and dynamic energy of birds in flight.

CALL DEADLINE DECEMBER 2, 2024
Exhibition dates: January 3 - February 2, 2025

APPLY HERE

Application Process

  • Complete the application - link above.
  • The Application has two parts:
  • Please read the instructions carefully to submit as requested. 
  • Please note the instructions for how to submit images of your art. 
  • Incomplete applications will not be considered. 
  • Deadline for application: December 2, midnight PST.

Eligibility

  • Art in any medium and size.
  • Only artwork that has not been shown at VCA or any other gallery or public venue on Vashon.
  • Artists residing in the continental US.
  • You may submit up to four (4) pieces for consideration. 

Schedule

  • Notification of acceptance: December 9, 2024
  • Deliver of art: December 30, 2024
    • Deliver to VCA.
    • Shipment of art must be pre-approved by gallery director.
  • Friday opening: January 3, 2025
  • Closing date: February 2, 2025
    • Artist responsible for pick-up of unsold art at VCA.
  • Gallery hours of operation: Wed - Sun. 12noon - 5pm

Questions: email, gallery director lynannp@vashoncenterforthearts.org

APPLY HERE

Why Birds?

Birds are universal creatures that have appeared in art throughout history, symbolizing everything from peace and freedom to mystery and the divine. They reflect nature’s grace, endurance, and power to soar above the ordinary. This exhibition offers an opportunity for artists to explore the many ways birds can inspire and express a range of ideas—whether it's a simple moment of watching birds in a garden or the grand mythology surrounding a bird like the phoenix.

What Types of Art Are We Looking For?

We are seeking art that explores the idea of birds in two and three-dimensional forms. All styles and artistic expressions are welcome, including:

  • Photographs: Capture birds in their natural environment, in flight, or moments of stillness.
  • Oil and Watercolor Paintings: From realistic to abstract interpretations of birds.
  • Pen and Ink Drawings: Black-and-white sketches or detailed drawings of avian forms.
  • Embroidery: Needlework depicting birds on fabric, an elegant combination of art and craft.
  • Tapestry and Fiber Art: Textiles that celebrate the texture and movement of birds.
  • Wall Hangings: Handmade works that evoke the spirit of birds in soft forms.
  • Sculpture: Metal, wood, or mixed-media pieces that create three-dimensional representations of birds for indoor or outdoor spaces.
  • Garden Art: Artistic bird-themed sculptures or decorations that enhance outdoor spaces.
  • Mobiles: Hanging sculptures that bring the motion of birds into a space.
  • Origami and Paper Sculptures: Intricate folded-paper birds in traditional or contemporary forms.
  • Carved Eggs or Gourds: Decorative creations that use natural materials like ostrich or emu eggs.
  • Felt Bird Ornaments: Whimsical felt pieces that showcase the playful side of birds.
  • Jewelry: Bird-themed pieces, from delicate necklaces to bold, statement rings.
  • Pottery: Ceramic works that reflect bird shapes or patterns.
  • Leather Work: Handcrafted bird motifs in leather goods.

Why This Show Matters

“Birds Take Flight” is not just a celebration of art—it’s a celebration of nature’s inspiration. Birds, with their ability to soar to new heights, remind us of creativity’s limitless potential. This exhibition brings together a variety of artistic mediums to showcase how birds can inspire different interpretations, emotions, and storytelling. By creating a platform for diverse artworks, this exhibition encourages both artists and viewers to engage with birds not just as creatures, but as powerful symbols of movement, freedom, and transformation.

This is an opportunity for artists to explore their connection to nature, stretch their creativity across different mediums, and share their personal take on how birds inspire them. Whether you’re drawn to the detailed beauty of feathers, the idea of birds as a metaphor, or fantastical creations like the phoenix, this show welcomes all artistic interpretations.

APPLY HERE

 

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