Art at the Classic — Nevada County Arts & Culture
Submit original artwork reflecting equine and western themes for a juried show with cash awards, ribbons, and the opportunity to be selected as the artist for the 2026 Draft Horse Classic poster.
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Get matched →- Deadline
- annual cycle, check dates
- Entry fee
- Not listed - check the source
- Award
- Cash awards and ribbons for First Place in each class and Best of Show; ribbons for Best Draft Horse Theme, Honorable Mention, and People's Choice; poster artist selection
- Location
- Nevada County Fairgrounds
- Applicants notified
- Aug 28, 2026
About
Overview
Art at the Classic is a juried show held during the annual Draft Horse Classic at the Nevada County Fairgrounds, featuring equine and western art. The show draws nearly 20,000 visitors and showcases more than 100 works by painters, sculptors, photographers, and other fine artists.
Eligibility
Open to artists 18 years and older whose work reflects a western way of life and includes equine subjects, work on the land, western landscape, animals or wildlife. Entries must be the artist's original design, produced in the last three years, and not previously shown in Art at the Classic.
Categories
Classes include oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, pen and ink, graphic and charcoal, colored pencil, photography, sculpture, miniatures, and anything goes.
Awards
Cash awards and ribbons will be given to First Place in each class and Best of Show. Ribbons will be awarded for Best Draft Horse Theme, Honorable Mention, and People's Choice. The artist for the 2026 Draft Horse Classic poster will also be chosen from submitted artwork.
Key Dates
- Art entries open: Early June
- Submission deadline: August 21, 2026
- Notification: August 28, 2026
How to Enter
Fill out your Art at the Classic entry form. Artists can also set up a booth at the show by filling out the booth application form.
- Award
- Cash awards and ribbons for First Place in each class and Best of Show; ribbons for Best Draft Horse Theme, Honorable Mention, and People's Choice; poster artist selection
- Theme
- Equine and Western art celebrating a western way of life, including equine subjects, work on the land, western landscapes, animals, and wildlife.
- Eligibility
- Open to artists 18 years and older whose work reflects a western way of life and includes equine subjects, work on the land, western landscape, animals or wildlife.
- Audience
- Artists 18 years and older
Every listing links to the organizer's official page. Always confirm deadlines, fees, and entry rules there before you apply.