SUBMISSIONS HAVE CLOSED. We look forward to seeing you at the Artist Reception and Gallery!

Theme: “Nature and the Built Environment” 

The Contemplative Sciences Center's Student Art Showcase invites UVA students to explore the relationship between the natural world and human-made design. 

How do architecture, landscapes, and everyday structures coexist with, or stand apart from, nature? Where do we find beauty, tension, or harmony in this intersection? Artists are encouraged to reflect on how environments, both organic and constructed, shape our experiences, identities, and ways of seeing the world. Artists are encouraged to interpret this theme in their own way. 

Rules & Submitting

For this showcase, all submissions must be original (such as photography, painting, drawing, digital print, or other flat media) that can be safely hung on a wall. Three-dimensional works (sculpture, installations, etc.) will not be accepted for this exhibition. Artists may submit one work for this showcase. 

Submissions must be submitted digitally between February 25 and March 16 at 5:00 pm via the submission form. Only fully completed forms with image uploads & an artist statement (description of submitted work and how it fits into the theme) will be considered.  

When submitting, please include: 

• Contact information 
• Title of work 
• Medium 
• Short artist statement (50-100 words) 
• 1-3 high resolution images of work 

Detailed instructions for art collection will be communicated once the submission window closes. 

By entering, you confirm that your work is original, meets the rules, and you agree to have it displayed and photographed for promotion. Programming Assistants from the Contemplative Sciences Center will review all submissions prior to the exhibition in the First Floor Gallery. During the week-long showcase, UVA students will have the opportunity to vote both in person and online for their favorite works.

Important Dates

Submissions Open: February 25, 10:00 am EST
Submissions Close: March 16, 5:00 pm EST 
Notification of Selection: March 18
Art Collection: March 19 - March 21
Gallery Opening Reception: March 24, 6:00 - 8:00 pm
Gallery Display: March 25 - April 1*
Winners Announced: Mid April

*Gallery dates are subject to change. Check back here for the most up-to-date information!

Have any questions? Please contact Sam Cole, kfj4es@virginia.edu.