UNcommon Threads

The SOUTH FLORIDA SURFACE DESIGN ASSOCIATION invites artists using traditional/non-traditional fiber materials and techniques to apply for Uncommon Threads. We are seeking work that explores unexpected relationships between fiber and other creative disciplines, pushing boundaries and challenging expectations in contemporary art and design. Collaborative works are welcome.

Categories for submitted work: Contemporary Fiber and Art to Wear. A total of $5,000 in cash prizes will be awarded.

The Exhibition will be on display concurrently at:

The Court House Cultural Center Galleries in Stuart, Florida September 9 – November 1, 2025

Non-refundable entry fee: $35 for up to three works.

The SOUTH FLORIDA SURFACE DESIGN ASSOCIATION seeks bold, innovative contemporary fiber work and wearable art that explores unexpected relationships between fiber and other creative discipline for an upcoming exhibition, Uncommon Threads: Contemporary Fiber & Wearable Art. This international exhibition celebrates fiber as a medium that pushes boundaries and challenges expectation in contemporary art and design. All artists that utilize both traditional and non-traditional fiber materials and techniques are invited to apply. Collaborative works are welcome.

All formats will be considered, including: 2D and 3D works intended for wall display or are free-standing or suspended; sculptural and vessel forms; books and basketry and Art to Wear, including clothing, accessories, and jewelry. There are two categories for submitted work, Contemporary Fiber and Art to Wear, with a total of up to $5,000 in cash prizes available.

The Exhibition will be on display in Stuart, Florida at the Court House Cultural Center Galleries September 9 – November 1, 2025   

Non-refundable entry fees are: $35 for up to three works.

An online exhibition catalogue is planned.

JURY                                                                                              

A jury panel will select entries based on originality, creativity, quality and complexity of workmanship, artistry and impact as represented in the images submitted. Work that differs significantly from the submitted images or does not meet the stated requirements will be disqualified and returned to the artist at their expense. Notification of acceptance will be sent via email. Please make sure that your contact information on the application is accurate.

SHIPPING

Shipping to and from the exhibition venues is the responsibility of the artist. Works must be packed securely and double boxed in reusable containers with thorough re-packing instructions and complete forms for return. All work must be shipped in sturdy, reusable containers with NO PEANUTS in the package. Work may be hand delivered during the designated times. Detailed delivery and shipping instructions will be emailed with the notification of acceptance.

INSURANCE/LIABILITY    

Artists are responsible for all costs incurred in delivery and return of accepted artwork including insuring their work while in transit to the venue. MartinArts will insure artworks while in the exhibition galleries for the entire exhibition period.

SALES 

Artists are encouraged to price their work for sale; however, work may be tagged “NFS” (Not for sale). All NFS work must have a declared value for insurance purposes. The price of a piece may not be changed after acceptance into the exhibition. A price list will be available for interested collectors.

There is a 25% commission on art sold during the Exhibition. The exhibition venues will account for all sales, pay applicable state sales tax, and provide the artist with a check within fifteen (15) business days of the end of the exhibition, unless other arrangements have been made and agreed to in writing.

IMPORTANT DATES

Call for Artists opens: March 1, 2025

Submission deadline: May 23, 2025

Notification of jurors’ decision artists: June 1, 2025

Courthouse Cultural Center: September 9, 2025 – November 1, 2025

Opening reception September 12, 2025

Artists must be 18 years of age or older.

Each artist may submit up to three (3) pieces. Collaborative works will be considered as a single entry.

Entries must be original work completed after January 1, 2020. 

All work must include natural or synthetic fiber and/or be executed using fiber/textile techniques. Mixed media pieces that meet the above requirement will be considered.

All work must be original in concept, design and execution. Work created in a class or workshop, from a kit or purchased pattern is not eligible. No artwork should violate any copyright.

For each entry submit clearly focused, well-lit images on a neutral background that accurately reflects the work submitted. Color must represent the piece accurately. The submitted images will be used to determine acceptance into the exhibition and for the catalogue.

JPEG or JPG only, 1200 pixels or greater on the longest side.   Maximum size 5MB

For 2 D work, submit two images of each piece, an overall photo and a close up shot showing the workmanship of the piece.

For wearables and 3-D/sculptural pieces submit three images of each piece, include a full front view, a full back view and a detail close up.

Work exhibited in a frame must include the frame in the digital image. Please indicate the dimensions of piece with and without frame.

Title images using this format: Do not include your name or initials in the title.

2 D work: Title-full.jpeg / Title-detail.jpeg; Wearables and 3 D pieces:  Title-front.jpeg/ Title-back.jpeg / Title-detail.jpg·    

Entries must be original work completed after January 1, 2020.

Pieces that have been on prior exhibit at the Court House Cultural Center are not eligible for entry.

Each artist may submit up to three (3) pieces. Collaborative works will be considered as a single entry.

All work must include natural or synthetic fiber and/or be executed using fiber/textile techniques. Mixed media pieces that meet the above requirement will be considered.

All work must be original in concept, design and execution. Work created in a class or workshop, from a kit or purchased pattern is not eligible. No artwork should violate any copyright.