Nothing New: Call for Entry
Application Deadline: Tuesday, March 31, 5pm
Nothing New celebrates contemporary fiber and textile artworks created from up-cycled, recycled, or repurposed materials, highlighting the creative potential of reuse and the role textiles play sustainability, consumption, and care for our environment. Curated by the Textile Arts Center of Madison and presented at Overture Center for the Arts, the exhibition invites artists to transform discarded, surplus, or previously used materials—such as clothing, household textiles, industrial remnants, packaging, found fibers, etc.—into compelling works of art.
Submitted works must be primarily fiber- or textile-based in material, concept, or process and may include traditional, experimental, or mixed-media approaches, as long as reused materials are integral to the work. The exhibition seeks artwork that is visually engaging, thoughtfully made, and offers fresh perspectives on the afterlife of materials.
Nothing New Exhibition Details
There is no application fee, and you do not need to be a TAC member to apply—everyone is welcome!
Artists will be notified by email whether their work has been selected the week of April 20, 2026. Notifications will list the status of each submitted artwork, so please be sure to check your inbox—and your spam folder—just in case.
Artists may submit up to three individual works. Please upload full images only; detail shots, close-ups, or alternate views will not be accepted or reviewed. Clear, high-quality photographs are important, as poor photography may affect the selection process. Images should show the artwork straight-on against a flat, neutral background. Natural daylight (is just fine) or professional studio lighting (definitely not required, but nice if you have it) works best. If a model is used, they should not distract from the artwork.
Images must be 5MB or less. There are no dimension restrictions.
Artist statements should be no more than 120 words per entry.
All information entered in the application form—including your artist statement—may be used for print materials, digital promotions, and social media if your work is selected, so please keep descriptions clear and concise.
Selected artwork must be hand delivered. Unfortunately, TAC cannot accept shipped work and is unable to return ship artwork.
If you have any questions, please contact Heather Kohlmeier at heather@textileartsmadison.org. We’re happy to help!
Important note about the gallery:
This exhibition will be installed in the Overture Playhouse Gallery, which is a long, gently curved hallway. Work may protrude from the wall or be displayed on pedestals. However, stanchions may be used to ensure work is given appropriate space. All works to be installed on the wall must be fitted to accommodate the D-ring system as nails and other traditional hanging fixtures are not allowed. Please contact Heather Kohlmeier at heather@textileartsmadison.org for more information.
Timeline:
Application Deadline: Tuesday, March 31, 5pm
Notification of Acceptance or Regrets: Week of April 20, 2026
Artwork Drop Off: TBD
Exhibition Opening: Tuesday, September 1, 2026
Exhibition Reception: TBD (late September or early October 2026)
Exhibition Closing: Sunday, November 15, 2026
Artwork Deinstall: Week of November 16, 2026
Nothing New Submission:
Please follow the link below to complete your application