Location: Cherry Grove Preserve, Newtown, CT

Exhibit Dates: [6/27/26-9/11/26]

Deadline to Apply: [11/1/25]

 

The Newtown Forest Association, in partnership with local artist Annette Womack, is excited to announce a call for artists for “The Great Art-doors” trail exhibition at Cherry Grove Preserve in Newtown, CT. We are seeking local artists to display their work along the scenic trails in a temporary outdoor exhibit. This unique opportunity celebrates the harmony of art and nature, inviting the community to experience creativity in an open-air setting

 

Theme:

The theme is OPEN for our inaugural exhibit. Open can be taken to mean open spaces or just open to interpretation. Artists are encouraged to create works that engage with the natural surroundings, spark curiosity, and enhance the visitor experience on the trails. 

 

Eligibility:

Open to local artists of all backgrounds and disciplines from the greater Newtown area. All work must be suitable for outdoor display and withstand varying weather conditions. 

 

Artwork Requirements:

• • Durable, weather-resistant materials

  • Artists will have approximately 6x6x8’ space to display their work

  • Freestanding without causing damage to the environment

  • Installation must be safe for public interaction

  • No overt political messages

  • Work must be family-friendly with no sexual, offensive, or derogatory themes.

  • This is a leave no trace exhibit. All work must be installed and deinstalled without harm to the environment

 

Submission Guidelines:

Please submit the following to annettewomack@me.com.

• • Artist name and contact information

  • Proposal or concept description (max 300 words)

  • Up to 3 images/sketches of proposed work or similar past works

  • Short artist statement (max 150 words)

 

Special Statement:

Please note that the trail will remain open to the public throughout the exhibition, and artwork will not be monitored at all times. By participating, artists acknowledge that neither the Newtown Forest Association nor Annette Womack can be held responsible for loss, theft, or damage to any artwork. We also reserve the right to veto any work that does not meet our guidelines.

 

This is a volunteer-based exhibition meant to celebrate creativity and the beauty of nature. While there is no direct financial compensation, artists are welcome to offer their work for sale. Contact information will be shared in the program, on signage, and through social media promotion. All sales will be handled directly by the artist, who would retain 100% of any profits. Please note that all artwork must remain installed for the full duration of the exhibit.

 

For questions or more information, contact: AnnetteWomack@me.com

 

Important dates:

• Application open 9/1/25

• Deadline 11/1/25

• Artists notified by 1/15/26

• Install date: 6/20/26

• Opening Reception: 6/27/26

• Closing: 9/11/26

• Strike date: 9/12/26