This July, the Arts Council invites artists of all backgrounds to explore the many meanings of freedom through visual art. From personal expression and identity to community, movement, peace, and possibility, "How Freedom Feels" celebrates the emotions, experiences, and stories that make freedom unique to each individual. This is an open show for artists in the Southern Maryland region (Calvert, St. Mary's , and Charles counties).

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DESCRIPTION: The Arts Council of Calvert County is excited to share our July exhibition, "How Freedom Feels." This show is a collective exploration of freedom through the eyes, experiences, and emotions of artists. Freedom is deeply personal and constantly evolving. For some, it may be found in nature, family, culture, creativity, or the courage to be fully seen. For others, it may represent release from fear, expectation, limitation, or silence. Through a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums, "How Freedom Feels" captures the emotional landscapes tied to liberation, individuality, and possibility. The show will be displayed at the CalvART Gallery and run from July 4th - 31st with a reception on Saturday, July 18th from 1pm - 3pm. This is an open show for artists of all ages in the Southern Maryland region. All mediums are welcome.

 

ELIGIBILITY: Artists from Calvert, St. Mary’s or Charles counties.

 

SCHEDULE: Applications accepted: May 28th, 2026 - June 27th, 2026 (By 2:00 PM, if possible)

 

NOTIFICATION of Acceptance and Confirmation: The ACCC Gallery Administrator, Dale Godwin, will send out acceptance emails no later than June 27th.

 

DELIVERY of artwork: Accepted artwork should be delivered to CalvART Gallery, located at 110 Solomons Island Rd N, Prince Frederick, MD, upon date of acceptance up until July 3rd during regular gallery hours (Tuesday - Saturday, 11am-4pm).

 

SHOW DATE: July 4th through July 31st, 2026.

 

PICK UP: Artwork may be picked up after August 1st, 2026, at the CalvART Gallery.

 

Each participant may submit a maximum of 3 pieces of work for the show. It should be ready to be hung with wire and finished backing. Work that is unusual in hanging requirements needs to be discussed prior to submission to determine if/how it can be placed. Three-dimensional work should include details provided whether it would require a pedestal for display. We do accept larger pieces which can be placed on the floor for display but please provide specific dimensions so we can accommodate the work or make a substitute piece available if we do not have adequate display space. There is an entry fee of $5.00 per artwork, payable by check, cash or credit card at delivery of artwork. A 30% commission will be taken from all works sold. Sales will be processed through the Arts Council.