Reflections: An Invitation to Artists Worldwide
Exploring Global Themes Through Art
Are you a 2D artist who does not identify as African-American?
If so, Sharp Art Studio invites you to participate in 'Reflections,' an art call dedicated to exploring and showcasing your unique perspective on the African-American experience.
With 'Reflections,' we are committed to encouraging thoughtful, insightful artistic representations of perspectives on the African-American experience that are often overlooked or unexpressed. We seek works that explore pivotal historical moments, significant figures, and contemporary impressions of the African-American experience, spanning from the era of slavery in the West to the present day.
Whether your perspective is positive, critical, or challenging, we ask for honest expressions that contribute to a respectful, engaging dialogue—one that fosters deeper understanding, reflection, and cultural sensitivity. Through this initiative, we hope to inspire meaningful contributions to the ongoing conversation about race, history, and identity in American society.
Approach with Care: We ask participants to approach this theme with thoughtful reflection and respect. The African-American experience is complex, and we encourage artists to research and engage deeply with its history and significance.
Evaluation Criteria: Submissions will be evaluated on artistic merit, creativity, and how thoughtfully they engage with the theme. A diverse judging panel, including African-American voices, will ensure that works are assessed with cultural sensitivity and relevance.
Post-Exhibition Dialogue: Following the virtual gallery exhibition during Black History Month 2025, we will host an online panel discussion where artists and audiences can reflect on the works, share insights, and engage in meaningful dialogue about the themes explored. This will be an opportunity for learning, connection, and deepening our understanding.
Whether you work in oils, acrylic, watercolor, gouache, or egg tempera, and whether you are established or emerging, your perspective is welcome.
Selected artists will receive cash awards, certificates, and the opportunity for their work to be featured in a virtual gallery exhibition during Black History Month 2025, providing global exposure.
Balancing Creativity and Sensitivity: While we welcome imaginative interpretations, including fantasy depictions and alternate realities, we ask that these works remain connected to the core themes and history of the African-American experience, honoring its significance.
This art call offers a fresh approach to celebrating Black History Month. By engaging with the African-American experience, we aim to create a space where mutual understanding and connection can flourish. Through this shared exploration, we hope to bridge cultural gaps and strengthen the bonds that unite us. Your participation will help foster greater cultural awareness and present an artistically enriching exploration of this global theme.
We look forward to your inspiring submissions and to sharing this artistic journey with you. Thank you for helping us create a meaningful and inclusive celebration of Black History Month.
Theme: “Exploring the African-American Experience”
Objective: To illuminate diverse perspectives on Black History through the creative lens of non-African-American artists.
Eligibility: 2D artists worldwide working in oils, acrylic, watercolor, egg tempera, or gouache, who identify as non-Black.
Focus: Artists must explore any period between the era of the transatlantic slave trade and the contemporary African-American experience, expressing a unique point of view through their art.
Goal: To foster a deeper collective understanding of our shared humanity through the lens of diverse artistic perspectives.
Outcome: To inspire a universally beneficial form of self-reflection through the exploration of diverse perspectives.
Prizes:
⦁ 1st Prize: $1000 US
⦁ 2nd Prize: $500 US
⦁ 3rd Prize: $250 US
⦁ Hon. Mention: (TBD)
⦁ Virtual Exhibition (Winners and a selection of non-winning works will be displayed in a virtual gallery online during Black History Month 2025)
Judging:
Artworks will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
Technical Proficiency: Mastery of the chosen medium (oils, acrylics, watercolors, gouache, or egg tempera), with a focus on attention to detail and overall execution.
Depth of Exploration of the Theme: How thoroughly and thoughtfully the artwork engages with the African-American experience.
Creativity and Artistry: Originality, artistic vision, and the ability to present a unique perspective through the artwork.
Visual and Emotional Impact: The overall visual appeal of the piece and its ability to evoke emotion and connect with viewers.
Narrative and Storytelling Quality: The effectiveness of the artwork in conveying a story or message related to the theme.
Important Dates:
Submission Deadline: December 30, 2024
Judging Period: January 1, 2025, through January 31, 2025
Winners Announcement: February 15, 2025
Submission Guidelines
Include the following with each artwork:
Title
Dimensions
Medium
A brief artist statement explaining the submitted artwork relevant to the theme
A short artist's bio (200 words or less)
Entry fee: $30 (includes up to three (3) works of art)
File Format and Resolution: Submit high-resolution images (300 dpi) in JPEG or PNG format. Each image should be no larger than 5 MB.
Labeling: Label each image file with your last name, first name, and title of the artwork (e.g., Smith_John_Title.jpg).
Submission Process: See below.
Deadline and Notifications: All submissions must be received by December 30, 2024. Artists will be notified of the selection results by February 15, 2025.
Agreement to Terms: By submitting your work, you agree to the terms and conditions of this art call, including the use of your images for promotional purposes related to the exhibition.