Call for Artists

For more than 50 years, the Museum of Science and Industry has hosted the nation’s premier exhibition of African American art. This annual show presents more than 100 works of art from professional and emerging Black artists from around the country.
Entry Guidelines
Medium
Contemporary works created in any visual medium are accepted.
Eligibility
General Category: Black artists over 18 years of age.
Teen Category: Black artists who are 18 years of age or younger, OR currently enrolled in grades 9-12 (or the equivalent).
Awards
General Category
Best in Show: $3,000
Second Place: $2,000
Third Place: $1,000
Teen Category
Best in Show: $500
Second Place: $300
Third Place: $200
Applications Closed
Applications for 2023 are now closed. (See full exhibition timeline below.)
Exhibition Timeline
Submissions close | October 16, 2022 (11:59 p.m. CST) Note: neither MSI staff nor CaFE Technical Support are available on weekends, including the closing date. |
Notice of acceptance | Late October/Early November |
Loan agreement due | December 2, 2022 |
Shipping window (non-Chicagoland artists) | November 30–December 14, 2022 |
Local drop-off dates | Thursday, December 15 Saturday/Sunday, December 17–18, 2022. Timed entry by reservation only. |
Exhibition opens | January 16, 2023 |
Artist's reception | To be announced |
Exhibition closes | April 23, 2023 |
Local pickup dates | Friday/Saturday, April 28–29, 2023 |
Return shipping window | On/after May 1, 2023 |
More Information
For more information, contact juriedart@msichicago.org.