The Best of Polk 2026

Who Can Apply: Artists 18 and older living part-time (6 months or more) or full-time in Polk County, Florida
The Focus: Juried visual art exhibition showcasing 2D and 3D artwork from Polk County artists
The Funding: $3,000 in awards: Best of Show $1,500, Second Place $750, Third Place $250, Award of Excellence (2) $150 each, Merit Award (2) $100 each
Key Requirements: Submit up to 3 original artworks created after January 1, 2023 as JPEG/JPG files (1,200+ pixels on longest side, under 5 MB); artwork must be original concept and design, unaltered from digital entry; no crafts, jewelry, AI-generated work, or pieces requiring electricity

DeadlineMonday, September 21, 2026

AwardBest of Show: $1,500; Second Place: $750; Third Place: $250; Award of Excellence (2): $150 each; Merit Award (2): $100 each

Application fee$35

Program datesOctober 6, 2026 - December 5, 2026

LocationLakeland, FL

ParticipationOn-site

Career stagesAll Stages

Disciplines2D visual art, 3D visual art

Application notesArtwork must be dry and signed. Gallery wrap must continue around edges with no visible staples; canvases under 1.5" must be framed. No giclee reproductions. Maximum weight 10 hanging pounds. Frames must be in good condition. Plexiglass mandatory for framed/glass-covered work larger than 22"x28". Wires must be taut with screw eye hooks or d-rings one-third down from top. Sculptural/pottery/3D work must be self-supporting. Artwork size limit: 36" maximum on any side. Artists expected to leave work until show close; work left more than 30 days after designated pickup date will be forfeited. Pickup available week of December 7, 2026. All entry fees non-refundable.

Contactdepotartsdistrict@gmail.com

Hosted by

Lakeland Arts Association

Organization based in Lakeland, FL