Call to Indigenous Artists: Juried Exhibition

July 7, 2026

In PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS – Juried Exhibition
September 1 – October 15, 2026

Harold (‘62) and Mary Frank Main Gallery
Fine Arts Center, University of Rhode Island

Artists are invited to submit work for In Pursuit of Happiness, a juried exhibition exploring personal, cultural, political, and collective interpretations of happiness. Presented as part of the unveiling of the University of Rhode Island’s new Fine Arts Center, this exhibition seeks to reimagine and engage with the idea of “the pursuit of happiness” as an inalienable right given to the citizens of the United States. What does it look like to pursue, live, and sustain happiness across generations? This exhibition seeks to answer that question by highlighting the voices, perspectives, and creative expressions of Indigenous artists whose work reflects resilience, identity, and community. This work may engage historic pasts, our shared present, or extend the conversation toward imagined futures. 

Through In Pursuit of Happiness, we aim to create a space for reflection, dialogue, and celebration of Indigenous creativity and perspectives. Artists are encouraged to interpret the theme broadly—honoring traditions, envisioning futures, and expressing the layered realities of joy, survival, and fulfillment.

We look forward to your submissions.

Apply Here by July 17, 2026 (https://bit.ly/poh-je)

Eligibility

Open to enrolled citizens of federally and state-recognized Tribal Nations

Media & Presentation

  • All media are accepted, including performance, 2D, 3D, and digitally projected work.
  • Work must be ready to hang or display upon arrival.
  • Each work must include the artist’s name, title, and medium clearly labeled.
  • Any special installation or hanging requirements must be detailed in the application.

Insurance

All accepted work will be insured when in custody of URI. A URI insurance form must be completed for each accepted work.

Submission Guidelines

  • Submission period: May 1 – July 17, 2026
  • Artists may submit up to 4 works (each work requires an individual application)

Important Dates

  • July 23, 2026 – Notification of accepted artwork
  • July 27, 2026 – Deadline for submission of:
    • High-resolution images
    • PR information
    • Brief artist bio and statement
  • August 26–27, 2026 – Delivery of artwork to URI Fine Arts Center
  • September 23, 2026 – Reception (5:30-7:30)
  • October 16, 2026 – Deinstallation and retrieval of artwork

Awards
This is a juried exhibition with four opportunities for awards, including Best in Show, Runner Up, Director’s Choice, and Viewer’s Choice.

Apply Here by July 17, 2026 (https://bit.ly/poh-je)