The Space Between Storms: Borderline Personality Disorder Beyond the Moments You See

Overview

Emotions Matter invites those with lived experience of borderline personality disorder (BPD)—as an individual, family member, or professional—to submit artwork for the 2026 Art Show, "The Space Between Storms: Borderline Personality Disorder Beyond the Moments You See." This year's theme explores the moments that often go unseen: the space between crises and the experiences of hope, healing, recovery, identity, and everyday life with BPD. The Art Show aims to raise public awareness about BPD, empower artists to tell their stories through art, and inspire those impacted by BPD.

Key Dates

• Submission Deadline: Sunday, September 13, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET
• Notifications: Wednesday, September 30, 2026
• Exhibition: Week of October 26, 2026 (Virtual BPD Art Festival)

Eligibility

Applicants must have lived experience of borderline personality disorder as an individual, family member, or professional. International applicants are welcome. No shipping of original artwork is required.

Media & Submission Requirements

• 2D and 3D artwork eligible
• Submit 1 to 3 original works
• Submit 1–3 images (digital files)
• A separate Artist Submission Statement required for each piece, describing how it connects to the theme and the applicant's BPD journey

Fee

Artist Entry Fee: $40. Fees collected help offset costs associated with technology, printing, and administrative support. Participating artists may receive complimentary copies of select materials produced from the show and feedback about their art. Those experiencing financial hardship may email [email protected] to inquire about possible assistance. Entry fees are non-refundable.

Selection & Next Steps

Artwork will be reviewed based on adherence to submission criteria, fit with the theme, and artistic expression. If selected, artists must be willing to have their work displayed in the virtual exhibit on the Emotions Matter website and may be asked to provide higher-resolution images. Selected artists will be invited to participate in a live virtual Artists Roundtable during the week of October 26 (participation is optional). Emotions Matter will work with artists to prepare a short Artist Exhibit Statement for public display alongside the artwork. Selected artists may also participate in additional educational or fundraising materials. All selected artists must sign an Artist Waiver and Release Form via DocuSign; artists retain ownership of their artwork.

Contact

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 516-350-8387