Call to Artists: Icons

Overview

Icons is a visual exploration of figures, symbols, and moments that shape culture, influence society, and transcend time. From historical legends to contemporary trailblazers, this exhibition examines what it means to be iconic, whether through fame, influence, or artistic interpretation. Artists are invited to submit works that engage with the idea of "icons" in any form, portraits of cultural figures, symbolic imagery, or conceptual reflections on power, legacy, and myth-making. Whether celebrating, critiquing, or reimagining icons, this exhibition seeks bold and thought-provoking perspectives.

Media

Submissions are welcome in all media including painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, mixed media, digital arts, sculpture and video. AI generated art is not allowed.

Key Dates

• Online submissions deadline: Sunday, July 19, 2026
• Notification of acceptance: Wednesday, July 29, 2026 by 5pm
• In-person receiving days for accepted work: Tuesday, August 11 – Wednesday, August 12, 10am–5pm
• Shipped artwork must arrive: Monday, August 10 – Wednesday, August 12
• Exhibition: Thursday, August 20 – Saturday, September 26, 2026

Juror

John Pirman graduated in 1979 from Kent State University with a BFA in graphic design & illustration, and studied in Brissago, Switzerland with Paul Rand. His work is influenced by Swiss design, pop culture, posters of the WPA era, and mid-century modern design. In the fall of 1979, John moved to New York City and began a career as a freelance illustrator, creating editorial art for Fortune, Hemispheres, Vogue, Wallpaper, Glamour, New York Magazine, The New York Times, Forbes, Time, The Wall Street Journal, Travel and Leisure, Advertising Age, and Cosmopolitan Magazine. Awards will be chosen by the juror in person when all works are installed at Art Center Sarasota.