Mystery, Magic & the Macbre

Call for Submissions: 6th Annual Mystery, Magic & Macabre Juried Exhibition

The Deines Cultural Center is thrilled to announce that we are now accepting submissions for our fifth annual Mystery, Magic & Macabre Juried Exhibition. This exhibition celebrates talented and innovative artists whose work is thoughtful, imaginative, and uniquely portrays the enchanting, mysterious, and surreal. 

We invite artists who bring thoughtfulness and creativity to their work and provide unique insights into the magical, mystical, and macabre. Please be aware that artworks that depict graphic violence will not be accepted.

Submission Guidelines

Submissions are open to artists across all mediums, including:

• Painting
• Sculpture
• Photography
• Mixed media

Artists must be 18 years or older. While all mediums are encouraged, please note the following exclusions:

• No installation art
• No videos
• No artificial intelligence (AI) works
• Please refrain from submitting copies, kits, or giclée reproductions.

Exhibition Details

The goal of the exhibition is to provoke thought, ignite curiosity, and transport viewers into a dark and mystical realm. Selected pieces will be displayed at the Deines Cultural Center from October 16th to November 20th, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the enigmatic and extraordinary.

Artists will be notified of their acceptance on September 19th, 2026. All accepted works must be delivered to the Deines Cultural Center by October 7th, 2026. Judging will take place in person, with awards announced during the opening reception on October 16th, 2026. For those unable to attend, notifications will be sent via email on Wednesday, October 21st, 2026.

This year's juror is David Barnes, Director (retired) of the Shafer Gallery at Barton County Community College in Great Bend

Awards

1st Place - $500

2nd Place - $250

3rd Place - $150

Apply online through the Cafe Call for Entries website. 

This call is open to artists 18 years or older living in the United States. All 2d and 3d mediums will be accepted with the following exceptions: 

• No installation art
• No videos
• No artificial intelligence (AI) works
• Please refrain from submitting copies, kits, or giclée reproductions.

Entries must be original works of art completed within the last three (3) years and have not been previously exhibited in the Deines Gallery. All works must be for sale, and no entry previously sold may be borrowed for entry in the competition.

All two-dimensional works must be framed and wired for hanging – works without wiring will not be accepted or will be wired at the artist’s expense. No substitution, exchange, modification, or withdrawal of works is permitted after they are accepted.