CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: “How Do You See Happiness?.”

The Bender JCC Goldman Gallery, Inclusion Services, and Mainstreet Connect are partnering for a one-of-a-kind community exhibit titled “How Do You See Happiness?.” Artists from Mainstreet Connect and the Bender JCC will unite as one community.

This theme, “How Do You See Happiness?”, invites artists to explore the complex and personal nature of happiness, reflecting on how it is experienced, defined, and expressed across different backgrounds and identities. This theme encourages participants to share their unique perspectives, emphasizing that happiness is a deeply individual—shaped by culture, community, and personal history—and to represent it in ways that reflect diverse voices and experiences.

Eligibility Information:

• Open to art of all mediums (e.g., visual arts, photography, mixed media, sculpture,
fiber arts, etc.).
• You do not need to be a professional artist
• Art can be submitted by artists of all ages
• The theme should explore personal interpretations of happiness
• In-Person Commitments: All accepted artists are required to attend two in-person
events. The first event occurred at Mainstreet Connect in Rockville. In addition to the gallery exhibit reception at the Bender JCC on Sunday, June 8 from 1:00-3:00 pm.

Artwork Guidelines:

• Theme: All submissions should relate to the concept of happiness, whether it’s an
individual or collective representation, a depiction of joy, or a critique of societal
views on happiness. Artwork should be aligned to Bender JCC and Mainstreet
mission and values, the Bender JCC reserves the right to deny any artwork that is
not aligned with our mission and values.
• Artwork Format: Artists can submit up to 2 pieces for consideration, there is no
guarantee that both pieces may be accepted. Artwork of all mediums is eligible for
submission, including 2D and 3D artwork.
• Dimensions: 2D artwork cannot exceed 24×36 inches, including the frame. 3D
artwork will be displayed on pedestals or the floor.
• Hanging Requirements: Artwork is to arrive at the Bender JCC ready for hanging,
equipped with D-rings, and compatible with our hanging system. All artwork should be
labeled on the back with the artist’s name and title of the work.

Submission Process:

• Submission: Please email Kate Falls (kfalls@benderjccgw.org) and Marcie
Blackman (mblackman@benderjccgw.org) with your submission. Please include
your first and last name, the title(s) of your piece(s), the dimensions, and medium.
Submissions will also require an artist statement and a high-resolution JPEG, see
below for specific information.
• Artist Statement: Please submit a brief description of how your work connects to
the theme “How Do You See Happiness?.” Statements should not exceed 200
words.
• Images: Please submit a high-resolution JPEG photograph of your artwork for the
jury to use for consideration. The image should be at a minimum of 7x5in at 300 DPI. The
image should just be of the artwork, with no frame, mat, or watermark. The image should
be cleanly cropped, we should not be able to see your table, wall, or anything but the art.

Selection Process:

• Artwork will be reviewed based on creativity, thematic relevance, and originality.
• Notifications of acceptance or rejection will be sent by Monday, May 19. 2024

Questions? Contact Marcie Blackman at mblackman@benderjccgw.org or Kate Falls at kfalls@benderjccgw.org

All Bender JCC programs are open to everyone. Contact Kate Falls, Director of Inclusion, at kfalls@benderjccgw.org or 301.348.3767 to discuss support and accommodations.