Deadline: 01-Jul-2026

Applications are open for the Inclusion-Themed Exhibition to submit original quotations to accompany large-scale artworks celebrating diversity and inclusion. Participants can win cash awards totaling $6,000, with entries displayed alongside 50 billboard-size artworks across Southwest Florida from mid-January through April.

Overview

The Inclusion-Themed Exhibition invites the public to submit original quotations to be displayed alongside large-scale artworks. The exhibition highlights the powerful combination of visual art and written word, amplifying individual voices and fostering community dialogue on diversity and inclusion. Selected quotations aim to create a safe, inclusive, and thought-provoking environment for all visitors.

Focus Areas and Themes

The exhibition centers on:

• Diversity and Inclusion: Celebrating the voices and experiences of all community members.

• Visual and Written Collaboration: Quotations displayed alongside large-scale artworks to enhance meaning.

• Community Engagement: Encouraging dialogue, reflection, and shared understanding.

• Safety and Respect: Creating spaces that are welcoming and affirming for everyone.

Awards and Recognition

• Total Cash Awards: $6,000

• Best-in-Show Adult: $2,000

• Best-in-Show Student: $2,000 (split with school’s art or writing program)

• People’s Choice Award: $2,000, determined by exhibition visitors
  Winners are recognized for quotations that demonstrate insight, creativity, and alignment with inclusion themes. Educators may submit on behalf of students using personal or school contact information.

Submission Guidelines

• Original Work: Only original quotations are accepted; AI-generated submissions are prohibited.

• Word Limit: Maximum 20 words per quotation.

• Submission Method: Online or by mail.

• Entry Limits: Individuals may submit up to five quotations at a time; additional entries require separate submissions in groups of no more than five.

• Eligibility: Open to all members of the general public, including students through educator submissions.

Exhibition Details

• Display Size: 50 billboard-size images, each 16 feet wide by 12.5 feet high.

• Location: Multiple locations across Southwest Florida.

• Duration: Mid-January through April.

• Content: Quotations accompany artworks by local, national, and international artists or writers.
  The exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to engage with messages of inclusion, kindness, and respect in a visually impactful format.

Why This Opportunity Matters

• Amplifies Individual Voices: Encourages participants to share personal thoughts and reflections.

• Promotes Community Dialogue: Combines art and text to spark conversations on inclusion.

• Supports Creativity: Recognizes thoughtful, concise expression aligned with exhibition themes.

• Engages Broad Audiences: Visible across multiple public locations to maximize reach and impact.

How to Apply / How It Works

1. Prepare Quotations: Write original quotations up to 20 words reflecting inclusion and diversity themes.

2. Submission: Submit entries online or by mail, ensuring compliance with word limits and originality requirements.

3. Educator Submissions: Teachers may submit on behalf of students with adjusted contact information.

4. Review and Selection: Submissions reviewed for alignment with inclusion themes and creative expression.

5. Award Determination: Best-in-Show winners selected by jury; People’s Choice Award determined by exhibition visitors.

6. Exhibition Display: Selected quotations displayed alongside 50 large-scale artworks in Southwest Florida.

Common Mistakes and Tips

• Exceeding word limit: Keep quotations under 20 words.

• Using AI-generated text: Only original human-written quotations are accepted.

• Submitting more than five at once: Limit initial submission to five; additional entries require separate submission groups.

• Lack of thematic relevance: Ensure quotations clearly reflect diversity, inclusion, kindness, or community engagement.

• Incomplete contact info: Include accurate personal or school contact details as required.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: Who can submit quotations? A1: Any member of the general public; educators may submit on behalf of students.
Q2: How many words are allowed per quotation? A2: Maximum of 20 words.
Q3: Are AI-generated quotations allowed? A3: No, only original human-written quotations are accepted.
Q4: How are winners determined? A4: Best-in-Show awards are jury-selected; People’s Choice is determined by exhibition visitors.
Q5: How many quotations can I submit at once? A5: Up to five; additional entries require separate submission groups.
Q6: Is there a submission fee? A6: No, submission is free.
Q7: When and where is the exhibition held? A7: Mid-January through April at multiple locations in Southwest Florida.

Conclusion

The Inclusion-Themed Exhibition offers a unique platform for individuals to express personal reflections on diversity and inclusion through short, impactful quotations. Participants have the opportunity to showcase their voice, win cash awards, and contribute to a public dialogue that celebrates creativity, empathy, and community engagement.

For more information, visit Embracing Our Differences.