Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Calls for Artist Applications and Poster Art Artists for 29th Annual Festival of the Arts

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation's Festival of the Arts is one of the Southeast's premier festivals and showcases more than 100 artists from across the U.S. The Festival is a celebration of art, music, food, and family fun and features a live music lineup, Cuisine on the Green, a wine and beer garden, art activities for kids, merchandise, and more. 

The 29th annual Festival will be held on Saturday, Oct. 26, and Sunday, Oct. 27 in the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village in Destin, Florida. 

This is a juried show that includes artists in the categories of Acrylic, Clay, Pen & Ink, Mosaic, Watercolor, Metal, Jewelry, Sculpture, Photography, Collage, Printmaking, Fiber, Glass, Wood, Mixed Media, Pottery, Resin, Pastels, Ceramics, Pencil, Oil and Original Digital Art.

Artists display their pieces and compete for $12,100 in cash award prizes for: Best in Show, People's Choice Award, Awards of Excellence, Awards of Merit, and Judge's Recognition Awards. 

Participating artists must pay a $30 non-refundable jury fee. Booth fees are from $350.

The winning design for the official poster competition will become the signature artwork for festival t-shirts, posters, marketing collateral, and merchandise and will be displayed on the cover of the festival guide. The winning artist will also receive a $750 cash prize. 

"Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation is a champion for arts and culture and the Festival of the Arts helps to build that creative community. This festival attracts artists from across the country and has become a popular annual fall event with locals and visitors alike,” said Deb Nissley, director of operations for Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation.

The application deadline for both Artist Exhibition and Poster Art is June 30, 2024.