OPEN CALL FOR ART Collective Renderings of We the People
on view July 2026 in gallery 1
This summer marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. This milestone invites both commemoration and critical reflection. In recognition of this moment, we invite our members to submit work for Collective Renderings of We the People, an exhibition that engages with our nation’s ever-evolving constitutional democracy established in 1776. Artists might consider themes such as civil rights, systemic inequity, representation, civic participation, or the role of dissent in a democratic society. This exhibition seeks to explore not only the foundational ideals of the nation but also how those ideals have been interpreted, challenged, and reimagined over time.
The DVAA Exhibition Committee is looking to feature work that fits into at least one of these suggested categories:
Works that feature iconic national symbols, monuments, pivotal historic events, or influential figures. These historical visual anchors can serve as points of entry into deeper conversations about national identity and memory.
DVAA recognizes that we are living through a period of profound social, political, and cultural tension. As such, we encourage submissions that move beyond commemoration and instead interrogate the present moment. What does freedom mean in today’s United States? Who has access to it, and who remains excluded? Where do we see fractures in the democratic system, and how do those fractures manifest in daily life?
We also ask artists to imagine the future. Within the next 250 years, what might a more equitable, inclusive, and fully realized democracy or alternative political system look like? Show us work that articulates or even shapes your vision. Utopian, speculative, and aspirational works are encouraged, offering space to envision a more perfect nation.
We welcome work that grapples with these questions in nuanced and personal ways—whether through expressions of disillusionment, resistance, hope, or ambiguity. DVAA aims to create a space for dialogue through this exhibit. One that acknowledges the complexity of the American experience, expressed through the work of our artist community.
Artwork featured on the open call graphic is Energy Landscapes by Linda Dubin Garfield, on view at DVAA in 2023.
Learn more information about the work HERE
Guidelines and Submission Requirements
All artwork must respond to the theme in some way. The theme can be interpreted in many ways, and we look forward to seeing what it brings to mind for you!
Submissions are for DVAA members only, and there is no submission cost. Not a member? Join today!
There is a 28” limitation for wall-mounted artwork, with variable dimensions for non-wall-mounted submissions accepted on a case-by-case basis. We are also accepting video works which can be displayed on a monitor.
All work must be ready to install (framed, wired, ready for pedestal, etc).
No more than 3 artworks per submission.
Members are not guaranteed acceptance into this exhibition.
Work will be reviewed and selected by the curatorial subcommittee of the Exhibitions Committee.
Selected works must be dropped off and picked up within the dates specified below.
Important Dates
Application Deadline Wednesday May 20th at 11:59pm
Artists Notified Friday, May 29th by 8pm
Exhibition Runs July 1st - July 19th, 2026
Opening Reception July 2nd, 5-7pm
Closing Reception July 19th, 12pm
Artwork drop off at DVAA May 30th - June 21st by appointment
Artwork pick up at DVAA on July 21st from 11am - 5pm
Any work that is deemed too fragile or difficult to ship will not be listed with
shipping available. DVAA determines what they do and do not feel comfortable
shipping. If an interested buyer lives out of state, DVAA will connect the artist with
Philadelphia art handlers whom the artist can pay to ship the work safely.