Organizer Information

Graphite Arts Center is a nonprofit contemporary arts organization based in Edmonds, Washington, USA. Established in 2022, the center serves as a creative hub for artists and the local community through exhibitions, educational programming, and cultural events. The organization operates The Gallery at Graphite, a modern 760-square-foot exhibition space located in downtown Edmonds. Since its opening, the gallery has presented more than twenty exhibitions showcasing emerging and established artists across various disciplines. Graphite Arts Center is committed to supporting artistic innovation while maintaining professional exhibition standards and fostering public engagement with contemporary art.

Title & Description

Print and Press – Juried Printmaking Exhibition 2026

Print and Press is an open call for artists working in traditional, contemporary, and experimental printmaking practices. Organized by The Gallery at Graphite Arts Center, this juried group exhibition explores the creative possibilities of image-making through matrix-based processes.

The exhibition invites artists to investigate the expressive potential of the printed mark while honoring the traditions of printmaking. Applicants are encouraged to submit works created from a physical printing surface such as a plate, block, screen, stencil, or other image-transfer matrix. The call embraces both conventional techniques and innovative approaches that challenge and expand the boundaries of printmaking.

Artists may submit works utilizing traditional printmaking methods including relief, intaglio, lithography, screen printing, monotype, and other established processes. Experimental and hybrid practices are equally welcomed, including works that integrate printmaking with ceramics, textiles, sculpture, installation, or mixed-media approaches. Print-based constructions and installations are also eligible, provided the work originates from a matrix used to transfer an image.

The exhibition seeks artwork demonstrating strong technical execution, conceptual originality, and thoughtful engagement with the printmaking medium. Both editioned prints and unique impressions such as monoprints may be submitted.

Selected artists will participate in a professionally curated exhibition presented at Graphite Arts Center's gallery space from June through August 2026.

Categories

  • Printmaking
  • Relief Printing
  • Intaglio
  • Lithography
  • Screen Printing
  • Monoprint / Monotype
  • Mixed Media
  • Installation Art
  • Textile Art
  • Ceramic-Based Print Works
  • Experimental Printmaking
  • Hybrid Print Practices
  • Contemporary Visual Arts

Eligibility

  • Open to artists working in printmaking and print-based practices.
  • Artists may submit traditional, contemporary, experimental, or interdisciplinary print works.
  • National and international artists may apply, provided they can meet the artwork delivery and collection requirements.
  • Both emerging and established artists are eligible.
  • Individual artists only.
  • No age restrictions were specified.

Applicants should note that accepted works must be delivered and collected in person (or through a designated representative), making participation most practical for artists able to arrange transportation to Edmonds, Washington.

Program Benefits & Awards

  • Inclusion in a professionally juried group exhibition.
  • Public exhibition at The Gallery at Graphite Arts Center.
  • Exposure to gallery visitors, collectors, and the regional arts community.
  • Participation in the exhibition opening reception.
  • Opportunity to sell exhibited artwork.
  • Professional promotional support through Graphite Arts Center's marketing channels.
  • Networking opportunities with fellow artists and arts professionals.
Sales Opportunity
  • All exhibited works must be available for purchase.
  • Artists retain 70% of sales revenue.
  • Graphite Arts Center receives a 30% commission on all artwork sales.

Application Fee

  • $20 USD for up to three artworks.

Additional Fee

  • Two-dimensional works exceeding the standard size limitations may be considered.
  • Accepted oversized works will incur an additional $15 USD fee.

Application Requirements

  • Artwork Submission
    • Up to three artworks.
    • Original work created from a physical printing matrix.
    • Artwork must be available for the entire exhibition period.
    • Works may be editioned prints or unique impressions.
  • Digital Images
    • JPEG format only.
    • High-quality color photographs.
    • Images must be cropped to the artwork.
    • No glare or distracting backgrounds.
    • Proper image orientation required.
  • File Naming Format
    • Images must be labeled as: LASTNAME_TITLE.jpg

Artwork Specifications

  • 2D Work
    • Maximum outside framed dimension: 48 inches in either direction.
    • Larger works may be considered subject to approval and additional fees.
  • 3D Work
    • Maximum weight: 50 pounds.
    • Must be suitable for floor or pedestal display.
  • Presentation Requirements
    • Professional presentation required.
    • Works must be ready to install.
    • Proper hanging hardware and wiring required.
    • Glass clip frames are not accepted.

How to Apply?

Online Application

Key Dates

  • Application Deadline: 7 June 2026
  • Notification of Results: 9 June 2026
  • Artwork Drop-Off: 24 June 2026
  • Opening Reception: 26 June 2026
  • Exhibition Period: June 26 – August 8, 2026
  • Artwork Pick-Up: 11 August 2026

Location

Edmonds, Washington, United States

Additional Details

  • All accepted works must be delivered in person or through an authorized representative.
  • Shipped artwork is not accepted.
  • Graphite Arts Center does not provide return shipping services.
  • Artists grant permission for Graphite Arts Center to use accepted artwork images and artist names for promotional purposes in print and digital media.
  • Selected artists will be required to sign an exhibition agreement outlining participation terms.
  • Artwork cannot be committed to another exhibition during the exhibition period.
  • Professional presentation standards are strongly emphasized and may influence the jury's decision.

This opportunity is particularly suitable for printmakers interested in showcasing both traditional craftsmanship and innovative approaches to matrix-based image-making within a professionally curated nonprofit gallery environment.

Website Link: https://graphiteartscenter.org/call-for-art-print-and-press/