HARRISBURG, PA — The State Museum of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Heritage Foundation are issuing a final call to artists and craftspeople across the state to submit their applications for the 57th annual Art of the State exhibition. This esteemed juried event, known for highlighting the creativity and skill of Pennsylvanians, is rapidly approaching its May 3 application deadline.
Art of the State stands as a beacon for artists in various disciplines, offering them a platform to compete and showcase their work in categories including painting, work on paper, sculpture, craft, and photography/digital media. The competition is open to all Pennsylvania residents aged 18 and older, with submissions accepted exclusively online.
The exhibition, which has fostered an environment of artistic excellence for over five decades, is not just a display of talent but also a competition with significant rewards at stake. More than $5,000 in cash awards awaits the winners, with first, second, and third-place prizes in each category, alongside special awards like the William D. Davis Memorial Award for Drawing and the Art Docents’ Choice Award.
Scheduled to open on September 8, 2024, and run until January 5, 2025, this year’s Art of the State promises to continue its tradition of celebrating the diverse and dynamic art scene in Pennsylvania. The selection process, rigorously conducted by a panel of distinguished jurors, involves reviewing and scoring each submission, ensuring that only the highest-rated works in each category make it into the exhibition.
For artists, participation in Art of the State is more than an opportunity to win prizes; it is a chance to gain exposure, connect with peers and industry professionals, and contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of Pennsylvania. For the public, the exhibition offers a window into the contemporary art scene, showcasing the depth and breadth of talent within the state.
As the deadline looms, artists are encouraged to seize this opportunity to be part of a longstanding tradition that not only honors individual achievement but also reinforces the importance of the arts in fostering community, dialogue, and understanding. With its blend of competition, recognition, and celebration, Art of the State exemplifies the vibrant spirit of Pennsylvania’s artistic community.
In a world where the arts play a crucial role in reflecting and shaping society, events like Art of the State underscore the value of creative expression and its capacity to bring people together. As we anticipate the opening of this year’s exhibition, the excitement builds not just for the unveiling of new works but for the continuation of a tradition that celebrates the enduring power and potential of the arts in Pennsylvania.
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