Call for Art - The Wisdom: Artists Over 65

Project Information:

Exhibition call for art — Scottsdale Civic Center Public Gallery in the Civic Center Library, 3839 N Drinkwater Boulevard, Scottsdale AZ 85251  The Wisdom - on display, April 13-2027 – June 30, 2027   This is a juried exhibition of artwork by Arizona artists aged 65 years and older.  Some of the most moving, insightful art comes from artists who bring decades of lived experience to their work. The emotional vocabulary that comes from navigating life’s challenges brings wisdom, humor, and wonder. Older artists have plenty to say, mostly that they’re not done.

Applications are due by Sunday, January 10, 2027 11:59 p.m. MST (AZ).

Visit Submittable to apply.

Gallery Information:

Artworks can be any size up to 52 inches wide x 52 inches long for wall hanging. Recommended sculptural dimension limits for pedestals are 20 inches high x 15 inches deep x 15 inches wide. The gallery is 680 square feet, with 8-foot-tall walls, electric and data availability in the floor, and a cable and latch-hook hanging system. The gallery walls shall not be pierced or affected by the art installation and the hanging system must be used. D-rings must be on the back of work to accommodate the hanging system. Wall-hung artworks shall be at most 90 pounds each. Artworks are insured while on display. Exhibiting artists are eligible for an honorarium.

The Civic Center Public Gallery is open during library hours, check hours here: ScottsdaleLibrary.org/locations#civic

Selected artists are responsible for delivery and pick-up of artwork. We do not cover shipping. The artwork will be installed under the direction and support of the Scottsdale Public Art preparatory staff. Work must meet gallery standards, be professionally presented, and be ready to hang/install when brought for installation.

Please note: Existing artwork that fits this theme may be submitted for this call. The artwork must be acceptable for all ages. Artwork is not for sale at the gallery. All purchase inquiries are directed to the artist.

Timeline:

• Exhibition Dates: April 13-2027 – June 30, 2027
• Entry Deadline – 11:59 p.m., January 10, 2027 MST (AZ)
• Acceptance Notification (via email) – January 14, 2027 
• Delivery of Artwork by Hand – April 6, 2027, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  at Civic Center Public Gallery, 3839 N Drinkwater Boulevard, Scottsdale, AZ 85251.
• Shipping Artwork – Address to Scottsdale Public Art Curatorial, 7380 E 2nd Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 by January 10, 2027. Shipping costs not covered.
• Pick-up Date – July 1, 2027 from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Civic Center Public Gallery

Scottsdale Public Art:

In 1985, Scottsdale adopted a 1% for art ordinance and established Scottsdale Public Art to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Scottsdale Public Art seeks to integrate high-quality artwork into public spaces that reflect and enhance Scottsdale’s cultural and artistic identity. The program promotes a dynamic and inclusive vision of art in the public realm.

Scottsdale Public Art advocates for and facilitates the integration of artists’ work and ideas into the planning, design, and construction of community spaces. Public participation is encouraged throughout the process, from artist selection to artwork dedication, fostering a strong sense of shared ownership and civic pride. Scottsdale Public Art is a department of Scottsdale Arts, a private, nonprofit management organization that administers many of the arts and cultural affairs of the city of Scottsdale, Arizona.

Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale is home to a large residential community and serves as the primary resort destination in the Phoenix metro area. The city features a vibrant mix of specialty shopping, art galleries, recreational amenities, and numerous cultural and sporting events that contribute significantly to the region’s tourism industry. Residents from neighboring communities frequently visit Scottsdale to enjoy its retail centers, parks, libraries, and employment hubs. 

Visit Submittable to apply.

For Further Information

If you have any questions about this request for qualifications or you would like to schedule a time to discuss the project, please reach out to Tanya Galin, public art manager for Scottsdale Public Art, at TanyaG@ScottsdaleArts.org. Please include artist/artist team name and contact information in all correspondence.