The space was nearly empty when Realism arrived—precise, measured, certain.  Moving  through the exhibition, Realism nodded at crisp lines and familiar forms: “This is how things are meant to be”.  Suddenly in the center of the room— absolutely radiating chaos (in Realism’s opinion) —  stood Abstract: colors crashing, shapes blurring, an abundance of interpretive (but not necessarily codified) marks.  As their eyes met, Realism said,  “You’re a mess.” And then with some thought and excitement, “Can you help me untidy up, too?”

AND: SCENE!

So… is Abstraction untidy?  Is Realism uptight?  No.  Like much of art, we all know each exists in conversation with other schools of thought: one defined by a time-tested order, the other often associated with intuition.  Both can be methodical and vibrant and full of nuance.  Like Peanut Butter and Jelly, these two very different ideas come together to make one heck of a sandwich.  And that’s what this show is about.  No, not sandwiches: two ideas coming together to make something wonderfully dynamic.  For this show, we are seeking work that defies being strictly labeled as abstract or realism, but comfortably exists in both.  It’s the perfect theme for the season that brought us such contradictions as the Pumpkin Spice Latte and even Sweet Potatoes.

So! Let’s see your most realistic abstracts and your most abstracted realism, but mostly, let’s see some pretty great art. :)

SUBMISSIONS ARE DUE BY 11:59PM on TUESDAY, JULY 22, 2025.

Submission Fee: $20 per 3 pieces of Artwork.