Emerging Artists Application
We are so glad you're interested in applying! Please read the following information carefully before filling out the application.
The 53rd annual Art-a-Fest will be held Saturday, August 15 from 9 AM - 3 PM in Central Park, Charles City, IA. Please note, this is a time change from last year.
Learn more about the time change
Art-a-Fest is a juried festival where local and regional artists can display and sell their artwork. This festival fulfills an important role in the community and surrounding areas by supporting and celebrating local and regional artists. Our goal is to make the arts accessible to all members of our community during this one-day, free event. With interactive arts activities for children, live performing artists, and delicious food from a variety of local and regional vendors, there is something for everyone to enjoy, and the event draws a large crowd every year.
This Emerging Artists Program is intended to support young artists in Iowa who aspire to go professional.
This program is limited to artists who are 18-26 years old with a permanent Iowa residence who have never participated in a juried art show/festival.
Deadline to apply: June 15
Application fee: $20
Jury date: June 16-29
Notification of acceptance: by June 30
Applicants must submit at least three quality images that showcase their artwork, accompanied by detailed descriptions for each piece. It is essential that all artwork is designed and created solely by the artist submitting the application. The emphasis is on fine arts; therefore, commercially manufactured items, import items, food, commercially cast jewelry, works of art from commercial molds and kits, or art cast from molds not of the artist's original design are NOT acceptable.
Examples of unacceptable items:
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jewelry made with pre-fabricated pendants or pieces
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literary illustrations
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paint by number
To support varied price points, artists may include a limited selection of artist-designed print reproductions (non-giclée) such as stickers, greeting cards, postcards, puzzles, and cutting boards. These items must feature the artist’s original artwork and may not exceed 20% of the total displayed inventory.
All images and details submitted will be the sole criteria for selection by the jury panel. Applications will be evaluated based on creativity, originality, technical skill, presentation, and overall quality. Please note that all jury decisions are final, and the jury process is closed. Additionally, all submitted images may be utilized for advertising purposes related the event and the participating artists.
We are pleased to announce that up to 4 applicants will be selected to participate this year, sharing a 10x20 booth space. The provided amenities include booth space, a canopy tent, tables, chairs, and most display materials at no cost to the participating program artists. This presents a valuable opportunity for artists to engage with a broader audience and promote their work in a professional setting.
The application fee will be fully refunded to applicants who are not accepted to participate.
Artists will be invited to schedule a 1:1 advisory session with our knowledgeable staff. Each session will last 1-2 hours, providing personalized guidance to your needs. Additionally, our team is available via phone or email to answer any inquiries leading up to the event.
Participating artists may only display and sell original artwork in the categories in which they are accepted and must be present for the duration of Art-a-Fest. Artists may also sell print reproductions of original artwork.
Staff members and volunteers will be available throughout the day to provide assistance. They will support setup and ensure "booth sitting" coverage during short breaks, facilitating a seamless and organized experience for all.
Complimentary coffee and breakfast will be provided in the morning, during setup. Each participating program artist will also receive a $5 voucher for use at any of the attending food vendors during Art-a-Fest.
Participating program artists will not be judged for cash prize awards. Artists will be evaluated in their own category, and the top performer will be awarded a complimentary and guaranteed spot at Art-a-Fest 2027, provided that all event guidelines are adhered to. This is a fantastic opportunity for artists to showcase their talents and gain recognition in the art community!
Artists must report all sales made at the end of the day, and pay 7% sales tax for remittance by Art-a-Fest on the their behalf.
*Add charlescityartafest@gmail.com to your trusted email contacts, so confirmation emails and other notifications don't end up in your spam folder!*