“The Power of the ARTS” - MCA’s 8th Annual Juried Exhibition

About the Exhibition

For 25 years, Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA) has championed the arts and artists in Marion County. "The Power of the Arts" is MCA's 8th Annual Juried Exhibition celebrating the creativity, culture, and community that inspire the region. Artists are invited to submit artworks inspired by the arts themselves—whether celebrating a favorite artistic discipline, memorable performance, beloved book, inspiring artist, local arts organization, creative landmark, public artwork, festival, or cultural tradition. Thoughtful interpretations in realistic, abstract, traditional, or contemporary styles are encouraged.

Key Dates

• Submission Deadline: Monday, September 21, 2026 (by 11:59 PM)
• Status Notifications: Friday, September 25, 2026 (by 6 PM via Art Call email)
• Drop-off: Saturday, September 26, 2026 (11 AM–4 PM) or Monday, September 28, 2026 (10 AM–4 PM)
• Opening Reception: Friday, October 2, 2026 (5–7 PM, awards presented at 5:30 PM)
• Exhibition Dates: October 2–31, 2026
• Pick-up: Monday, November 2, 2026 (10 AM–4 PM)

Eligibility

Active MCA membership is required to participate. Not yet a member? Annual memberships begin at $35 per year at mcaocala.org/membership. Open to artists of all levels working in all mediums.

Submission Requirements

• Up to two (2) original works per artist
• Suggested maximum size: 40 inches in any direction
• High-resolution images required (JPG, PNG, or PDF)
• Brief artist statement for each piece explaining how it relates to the exhibition theme
• Original artworks only—no prints, reproductions, or works previously exhibited at The Brick
• All accepted artworks must be available for purchase

Fees

• $25 for up to two (2) entries
• $15 for one (1) entry

Awards & Recognition

• Best of Show — $250
• First Place — $150
• Second Place — $100
• Third Place — $50
• Two Honorable Mention Awards
• MCA 25th Anniversary Award (honoring the artwork best celebrating the impact of the arts within the community)
• The LILAC Foundation Purchase Award
• MCA Executive Staff Recognition Awards
• Fan Favorite Ribbons ($20 each, available for public purchase)
• Community Choice Award (most ribbons at end of exhibition)

Sales Commission

All accepted artwork must be available for purchase. Sales will be split 70% to the artist and 30% to MCA, with proceeds supporting MCA's mission.

Location

The Brick City Center for the Arts, Marion County, Florida.

Contact

MCA Gallery Team | Phone: 352-369-1500 | Email: [email protected]. Visit www.mcaocala.org/calls-to-artists to download the full Call to Artists and Exhibit Guidelines.