Artwork submission eligibility and guidelines

Selected artists will be compensated using CARFAC artistic payment standards as a guide, referencing the category for exhibitions in non-gallery public spaces. A guest curator, in collaboration with the Community Art Selection Committee, will review submissions and select artworks.

In Plain Sight rotating art exhibit

• Artists are encouraged to submit work that emerges from attentive observation and quiet contemplation of the everyday, its surroundings and the objects within. Artworks should emerge from close looking and attention to detail while they highlight the moments of wonder within the mundane and curiousity within the commonplace.
• Exhibition selections will reflect artistic strength, thematic resonance and a balance of voices that speak to change in many forms.
• Submissions closed on April 3, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. MST

Open to artists who are able to deliver and pick up their work to Inspire in Airdrie, Alberta. Delivery dates will be in mid-May, and pick up in mid-September. Shipping and transportation expenses are not covered by the City of Airdrie. All visual art mediums are welcome, including painting, photography, sculpture, textiles, digital art and mixed media, however some hanging and installation limitations do apply.

Please keep in mind the following criteria:

• Original works in all visual arts media are eligible.
• Images submitted must be in .jpg format and sized under 2MB.
• The maximum weight of artwork is 50 lbs.
• All work must be ready to hang/install with hardware and installation instructions included upon selection and delivery.
• 2D artworks must have a wire on the back, as the exhibition walls are equipped with a rod-hanging system only and D-rings, french-cleats, and other hanging supports are not compatible.
• 3-Dimensional artworks under 30 inches in height and width can be exhibited in a locked vitrine to ensure their protection within the public environment.
• 3-Dimensional artworks should be structurally sound, balanced, and safe to display in areas with regular visitor traffic. Please ensure works are self-supporting and durable enough to remain stable if lightly brushed or approached closely by the public.
• Digital artwork must be self-contained and not require outlet plugins or projections supports.
• Artwork should be suitable for children and avoid depictions of alcohol, drugs, tobacco or violence.
• Artwork should be respectful of the local history, culture and urban environment.
• Artwork should not include logos, brands or promotional material for businesses or organizations.
• Artwork must not infringe on copyright.
• Artwork should connect to the provided theme.

Accepted artists should be mindful of the following:

• After acceptance, artists will sign an exhibition artwork loan agreement contract with the City of Airdrie. This communication will occur via email with your acceptance letter.
• Artists will be responsible for delivering their artwork to Inspire and for collecting it at the end of the exhibition display period.
• Artists may not substitute another work for an accepted work. The City, curator and selection committee reserve the right to refuse any entry which does not match the image submitted or meet the criteria.
• Every precaution will be taken to handle artwork with the utmost care. The City, curator and selection committee will not be responsible for damage or loss from any cause during transportation or display. Accepted works will not be insured for the duration of the exhibition, however, artists may decide to procure their own insurance.
• Wall-hanging artworks will be on display within public multi-use spaces and artists are not guaranteed to have their work behind protective glass
• Artwork labels on site will include the artist's name, contact information (email/website), title of work, dimensions, media and year completed.
• The City will not facilitate any sale of artwork. Should someone reach out to the artist directly regarding sale, the artwork must remain in the exhibition for the duration of its scheduled display before being transferred to a potential buyer.

Artwork submission form