Embracing Our Differences Puts Out Call to Artists for 2014 Exhibit

SARASOTA -- Embracing Our Differences invites art and quote submissions for its 11th annual outdoor art exhibit celebrating diversity. The work of 39 artists and quote writers will be selected for display March 30-June 1, 2014, at three outdoor venues in Sarasota, Bradenton and North Port. This renowned exhibit that has been seen by more than 1,600,000 visitors since its inception in 2004.

"This is an exciting opportunity for artists and writers of all ages and backgrounds," says Michael Shelton, executive director of Embracing Our Differences. "We encourage professional and amateur artists and photographers, and teachers and students from around the world. Every year, we’re amazed at the high quality of art and quotes we receive.” 

Shelton says that last year the organization received 4,419 total artworks and statements from people representing 52 countries and 41 states. Students from 128 elementary, junior and high schools comprised 60 percent of the submissions.

A three-judge panel of professional artists, curators and art professionals makes the final selections of artwork, based on artistic excellence in reflection of the theme “enriching lives through diversity.” The artwork is also evaluated on how effectively it reads outdoors when enlarged to the exhibit's trademark billboard-size dimensions of 16 x 12.5 feet. A total of $3,000 in awards will be presented in various categories. 

To aid the submission process, EOD is developing a web portal that will enable artists to easily submit their work online. Shelton expects the portal to be fully functioning later this fall. There is no submission fee or limit on the number of entries. Submissions must be postmarked no later than January 6, 2014. To enter the artwork competition or learn more about it, visit www.embracingourdifferences.org/call-for-artists.html. To submit quotes or learn more about it, visit www.embracingourdifferences.org/call-for-quotations.html.

Another important component of the Embracing Our Differences art exhibits are the inspirational quotations that accompany each work of art to further stimulate thinking about the subject of diversity. "The combination of visual art and the written word adds a deeper dimension to the overall experience,” says Shelton, adding that quote entries must be original and 20 words or less. A $1,000 cash award will presented to the best original quotation exhibited.