DEADLINE FOR ALL ENTRIES: Saturday, May 31, 2025, 11:59 PM
EXHIBITION DATES: June 28 – December 31, 2025
The 2025 Arts in Action exhibit presented by DeKalb County History Center and Ellwood House Museum will highlight contemporary artwork in all media and is open to all artists who have lived in Northern Illinois. Artists are asked to submit works that reflect the vision and goals of Arts in Action and offer an original look into their diverse experiences.
Since 2020, Arts in Action has sought to tell a more accurate and inclusive history of DeKalb County by highlighting minority voices and pairing historical research with contemporary works by local artists. Exhibits have centered around the themes of “fear,” “exclusion,” “community,” and “hope.”
Works connecting to and inspired by local history will be prioritized; click these links for for relevant research and previous exhibit information.
Artists whose works are selected will be awarded $500.
No entry fee.
ELIGIBILITY:
Arts in Action is open to all artists with experience living in Northern Illinois. All media are accepted. Artwork cannot have been previously exhibited at the DeKalb County History Center or Ellwood House Museum.
TO APPLY, USE THE FORM AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE
OR SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING TO ProjCoord@DeKalbCountyHistory.Org
- Artwork Title
- High-resolution image of artwork
- Dimensions of artwork
- Brief artist’s statement (optional)
- Artist name
- Contact phone number
- Email address
AWARD:
Artists whose work is selected for exhibit will be awarded $500.
SHIPPING:
Artists are responsible for the delivery and return of work, including all costs.
IMPORTANT DATES
Saturday May 31, 2025 11:59pm EST: Entry deadline
June 2-6, 2025: Jury review of entries
Monday, June 9, 2025: Email notification sent
Friday, June 20, 2025: Deadline for artwork delivery
June 20-28, 2025: Exhibit installation at Ellwood House Museum
Saturday, June 28: Exhibition opens
Sunday, December 31, 2025: Exhibition closes
Monday, January 5 – 16, 2026: Artwork pickup
QUESTIONS?
Madison Tatum, Arts in Action Project Coordinator