Call for Vendors

Overview

WORK_SPACE galleries in downtown Manchester seek original artwork for multiple exhibitions celebrating diverse voices, creativity, and community. The galleries mission includes exploring diversity, promoting inclusion, showcasing creativity, and building networks among creative people.

Exhibitions & Themes

• Roots Run Deep (Indigenous Heritage): August 14 – October 15, 2026. New England artists with Indigenous heritage connection in all mediums exploring ancestral stories, cultural traditions, family histories, identity, migration, resilience, and belonging through artwork, storytelling, poetry, spoken word, music, dance, or other creative expression.
• Picture This (Photography & Poetry): Photographers submit original images by October 1, 2026; poets create ekphrastic poems responding to selected photographs by October 15, 2026. Collaborative exhibit pairing photographs with original poetry.
• Show Us Your Squirrels: Submission deadline November 1, 2026. Artist-created squirrels in variety of styles, perspectives, culture, and personalities—from simple stand-alone squirrels to squirrels enjoying Manchester activities. All ages and skill levels welcome; Connecticut residents only; no fee.
• Perspectives of Fantasy & Imagination: December 11, 2026 – January 21, 2027. Seeking original artwork exploring worlds beyond reality and the spectrum of imagination.

Key Dates

• Photography submission deadline: October 1, 2026
• Photographs posted for poets: October 2, 2026
• Poetry submission deadline: October 15, 2026
• Show Us Your Squirrels deadline: November 1, 2026
• Artwork drop-off: October 19–26, 2026
• Second Saturday Poetry Reading & Reception: November 14, 2026
• Fantasy & Imagination exhibit: December 11, 2026 – January 21, 2027

Eligibility

• Roots Run Deep: New England artists with Indigenous heritage connection
• Picture This: Photographers and poets of all experience levels
• Show Us Your Squirrels: Connecticut residents only; all ages and skill levels welcome