Embrace Event: Artist Submissions

Recent events across the U.S. have shown again the work that still needs to be done to achieve true equality for all people. In light of this, HREI is opening a call to artists titled “Embrace.” HREI is looking for artists to embrace popular “patriotic” phrases, using them to empower rather than exclude. 

This call to artists is inspired by Portland-based artist Arya Badiyan. Her recent artwork combines text with imagery to expose how the U.S.  has failed to uphold its own values. Each piece bluntly tells the truth while also creating a path to healing. 

Artists will respond to specific phrases like “liberty and justice for all” or “let freedom ring.” The full list of phrases can be found on this webpage.

HREI is accepting any traditional 2D art forms, like painting and drawing. 3D media and photography will also be accepted. All artwork should be able to easily fit through HREI’s main door to avoid complications during installation setup.

All submissions must respond to at least one of the phrases provided on the webpage. All artwork should be started no earlier than Friday, April 2. Artists should submit photographs of their work to jli21@my.whitworth.edu. The email  subject line should follow this format: Embrace submission – First name Last name

Submissions open Friday, April 2, and close Saturday, May 1. Judging will take place during the following week, from Monday, May 3 to Monday, May 10. The installation will run from June 11 to September 3. The installation will be in place during three important holidays: Flag Day, June 14; Juneteenth, June 19; and Independence Day, July 4. It will be hosted in HREI’s gallery space.