What we're looking for

Work in any medium that engages with the theme of the unknown - mortality, chronic illness, grief, faith and the loss of it, the body, time, memory, fear, hope, or the experience of waiting for answers that may never come. We welcome painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, sculpture, textile, mixed media, and work that resists categorization. Abstract or literal approaches are equally welcome. The show will be juried by the organizers with the goal of bringing together a cohesive exhibition that represents a wide range of experiences with the unknown.

Key dates

  • Submissions close: November 1

  • Decisions sent: by November 15

  • Setup: TBD (November 25-December 5)

  • Show runs: December 6 - February 28

  • Opening night: December 11

Venue: Wave Collective

What to submit

  • Up to 4 works for the main exhibition. All must connect to the theme and must be available for sale. 

  • 1 additional work for the silent auction. This can be on any subject and does not need to connect to the theme. Pieces should be no bigger than 14×14 in.

  • One image per piece (JPG or PNG, minimum 1500px on the long edge, max 10MB, 300 DPI).

  • A short artist bio (75–100 words) 

  • A few sentences describing how your submitted work connects to the theme.

Sales and silent auction

Show organizers manage all transactions and pays artists at the close of the show.

  • Main exhibition sales: Artists receive 50% of the sale price.

  • Silent auction: Starting bids should fall between $50 and $100. Silent Auction piece is a donation to the show, all proceeds go to the fundraiser.

  • Silent auction size should be no bigger than 14×14 in.

  • Prints: A dedicated print area will be available during the show. If you'd like to offer prints alongside your original work, let us know in your submission and we'll follow up with details.

Installation and logistics

  • All 2D work must arrive ready to hang with wire or D-ring hardware. No sawtooth hangers. For sculpture or installation pieces, we'll work directly with you on placement and technical needs - please describe these in your submission.

  • Artists are responsible for delivering, installing, and taking down their own work. Attendance at the opening reception December 11 is expected.

Image rights

By submitting, you grant the organizers of Unknown and Wave Collective permission to use images of your submitted work in promotional materials, including social media, press, printed materials, the gallery website, and UMDF/Alz Association communications. Credit will be given wherever practical.

Join the Show

Questions?

Email the team with any questions before submitting.

Sumbit