Shorelines and Stories: A Bristol Art Museum Call for Art

The Bristol Art Museum invites artists to submit work for Shorelines and Stories, an upcoming juried exhibition to be presented in the Museum’s community gallery at the Rogers Free Library from Apr. 21 through Jun. 3, 2026. Juried by Bill McLane, the exhibition will explore artistic interpretations of the shoreline, both literal and imagined.

Artists are encouraged to share their unique shoreline stories and help celebrate the beauty, memory, and meaning found where land meets water. All works must be received by Tues., Mar. 24, to be eligible for consideration. Artists may submit their work on the Museum’s website. 

Shorelines and Stories seeks artwork inspired by the sea, the harbor, and the shifting edges where land meets water. From sweeping seascapes of Block Island to intimate studies of local docks, from memories of summers by the shore to metaphorical reflections on life’s transitions, artists are encouraged to consider the many meanings and moods of coastal living. Work may reflect the natural beauty of the shoreline, human interaction with the coast, or the emotional resonance of living near the water.

“Living in a coastal community, the shoreline is part of our collective story,” said Jenn Tappero, Bristol Art Museum at Rogers Free Library Committee Member. “This exhibition invites artists to reflect on how the sea shapes our memories, our identity, and our sense of place. We’re excited to see the many creative ways artists interpret this theme.”

Submission Requirements
Artists must be 18 years of age or older. All work must be original, ready to install, and no larger than 18” x 24”. Eligible media include drawings, paintings, printmaking, collage, fiber arts, and photography. (No three-dimensional works will be accepted.) Artwork may be offered for sale; all sales are negotiated directly between artist and collector, and the Museum takes no commission.

Submission fees are $20 for one entry or $30 for two entries for BAM members, and $25 for one entry or $40 for two entries for non-members.

Questions may be directed to [email protected]
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