New Appalachia 2026

Source

Who Can Apply: Visual artists 18 years and older residing in the Appalachian region (Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia)
The Focus: Exhibition exploring the intersection of traditional Appalachian craft and contemporary artistic practices
The Funding: $1,000 Best-in-Show award; six 1st place prizes with solo show and workshop opportunities in New Appalachia 2027
Key Requirements: Works must not exceed 40 inches in any direction; 2D works must be framed with wire hanging; 3D works must include display documentation; no installations; works cannot have been previously exhibited at Stifel Fine Arts Center

DeadlineSunday, July 12, 2026

Award$1,000.00 Best-in-Show; six 1st place prizes with solo show and workshop opportunities in New Appalachia 2027

Application fee$30

DurationExhibition runs September 19 - October 31, 2026

Program datesSeptember 19 - October 31, 2026

LocationWheeling, West Virginia

ParticipationOn-site

Career stagesAll Stages

Disciplinesmetals, glass, fibers, wood, printing, ceramics, traditional Appalachian craft

Application notesEntries completed online through CaFÉ by 11:59 MST July 12, 2026. High-resolution images (300 dpi) required for jury process. Drop-off of accepted works: July 27 - September 12, 2026. Shipping at artist's cost with return shipping label required. Pick-up dates: November 1 - December 20, 2026. Opening reception: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 6:30-8:30pm. Jurors: Lindsay Ketterer Gates (Executive Director, Touchstone Center for Crafts) and Travis Winters (Programs Director, Touchstone Center for Crafts).

Contactkowen@oionline.com

Hosted by

Oglebay Institute's Stifel Fine Arts Center

Wheeling