Submission Guidelines

Application Requirements

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Submissions are ongoing and online through ArtCall.org. You can click here to access the ArtCall page. Please review the requirements below first.

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• A one-time, non-refundable application fee of $25 will be assessed through ArtCall.

• While we do not require artists to be members of ShenArts Council to apply to the Co-Op, if you are accepted, it will be a requirement at that time. You can view the membership levels at https://www.shenarts.org/membership-plans.

• If accepted, dues-paying members enter a provisional 6-month contract. At the end of this period, if all member requirements are fulfilled, the new member will be voted in as a full member with voting rights.

• Membership dues (if applicable) are to be paid quarterly.

• If you are accepted into SAC, you agree that you will not sell your art at any other location on the walking mall in downtown Winchester. This applies to all levels of membership.

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Image Specifications
 

• Image files must be .jpg or .png. Do not submit .heic, .pdf, or vector files of any kind.

• Image size should be a minimum of 600 pixels wide or tall but not to exceed 1200 pixels wide or tall. 

• Name your image files with Your Last Name_First Name_Image #.  For example: Warhol_Andy_01. 

• Your image names must correspond to the image list you provide in the jury application.

• Pricing must be included for each image submitted.

• The quality of digital images will factor into the jury's decision.

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Jury Panel Composition

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Our jury panel is comprised of 3-5 people, including board members from the ShenArts Council (governing board) and the SAC Co-op Board, as well as volunteers from the artist community. We ensure that the Jury panel includes a balance of different artistic disciplines for a well-rounded review.

Jurying Criteria

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Each application will be evaluated using a Jury Scoring Sheet that rates the following on a scale of 1-5:
 

• Artistic Quality & Craftsmanship – Technical skill and execution.

• Originality & Creativity – Uniqueness of the work.

• Consistency & Cohesion – A clear artistic voice/style.

• Presentation & Professionalism – How well the work is finished and displayed.

• Fit with SAC’s Vision – How the artist's work aligns with the values and goals of the co-op.
  Engagement & Contribution Potential – Willingness to participate in co-op activities beyond selling art (volunteering, marketing, events, etc.).
   

Jurors will score applicants individually, and final scores will be averaged to determine the outcome. Discussion among the panel members is encouraged to ensure a fair and well-rounded decision.

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Artist Application Guidelines – Work Samples
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Artists applying to the cooperative may submit images of past work, including pieces that have been sold, as examples of their artistic style, medium, and craftsmanship. However, it is essential that the work delivered to the studio aligns with the style, medium, and quality shown in the application.

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If the artwork differs significantly in medium, style, or execution from the submitted examples, the application will be rejected. This ensures consistency and alignment with the cooperative’s standards and mission.  If you have any questions about your submission, please reach out before applying.

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Jury Decision Making Process

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Based on scores and discussion, each applicant will receive one of the following outcomes:

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• Accepted (contingent on in-person review meeting) – The artist is invited to join the cooperative.

• Waitlisted – The artist meets quality standards but will be reconsidered in a future round due to space or other factors.

• Declined – The artist does not meet the cooperative’s current standards or is not the right fit at this time. Constructive feedback will be provided where possible.

Feedback for Applicants

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As we are launching the Co-op, we will jury submissions weekly.  Those who are declined or waitlisted will receive brief, constructive feedback to help them understand the decision and, if applicable, improve for future consideration.

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Acceptance & Next Steps

Welcome Packet – Upon acceptance, you will receive a Welcome Packet, which includes:

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• Cooperative guidelines and expectations

• Membership Agreement

• Participation requirements (e.g., volunteer duties, event involvement, sales expectations)

• Information about upcoming meetings and opportunities

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Membership Agreement - Each new member must sign the Membership Agreement acknowledging their commitment to cooperative responsibilities, any associated fees, and participation requirements.

Orientation & First Engagement - New members will be invited to a New Member Orientation, which will cover:

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• Introductions to fellow cooperative members

• Overview of cooperative operations and benefits

• Guidance on participation in events, exhibitions, and marketing initiatives

• Opportunities for committee involvement

First Artist Feature - Each accepted artist will be featured on the cooperative’s website and social media to celebrate new members. A short artist spotlight interview may be conducted to introduce them to the community.