Reunite the Rivers – Art of the Ocklawaha and Silver Springs

Description

Call to Artists: Reunite the Rivers – Art of the Ocklawaha and Silver Springs
Submission Deadline: Sunday, January 25, 2026, by midnightPontoon Boat Photo Excursion: December 1 or 20, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. - 2 p.m. (optional)Opening Reception: Friday, February 6, 2026 | 5:00–6:00 PMExhibit Dates: February 6–28, 2026Location: Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway Street, Ocala, FL 34471

About the Exhibit
Florida Defenders of the Environment (FDE) and the Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA) invite local and regional artists to participate in Reunite the Rivers: Art of the Ocklawaha and Silver Springs, a juried exhibition celebrating the beauty, history, and restoration of two of Florida’s most iconic waterways.
This exhibition honors the Ocklawaha River and Silver Springs—their landscapes, wildlife, and natural heritage—while shining a light on the ongoing story of ecological renewal and reconnection. Artists are encouraged to interpret the theme through their unique creative lens, fostering awareness, appreciation, and stewardship of Florida’s natural wonders.

Submission Details
Theme: The Ocklawaha River and Silver Springs — their landscapes, wildlife, springs, and restoration storyMedia Accepted: All mediums welcome (2D & 3D)Submission Deadline: Sunday, January 25, 2026 by midnight (via ArtCall)Delivery Location: Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway Street, Ocala, FL
Submit your artwork through ARTCALL - https://mcafeb2026.artcall.org...

Optional Artist Opportunity: Pontoon Boat Excursion
Participating artists are invited to join a pontoon boat photography excursion on December 1 or 20, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., during the Rodman Reservoir Drawdown. This rare event offers a firsthand look at the Ocklawaha’s hidden springs, ancient cypress forests, and abundant wildlife as the river briefly returns to its natural flow.
Artists may use sketches or photographs from this experience as inspiration for their submitted works.
To participate, go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/p... and select the date you are available to participate (Dec. 1 or 20) by November 28, 2025. Space is limited to 10 guests per day —early sign-up is encouraged! This is a free and optional event for MCA Artist Members ages 18 and over. Snacks will be provided.

Artwork Guidelines
Eligibility: Open to MCA Artist Members (To join, please go to mcaocala.org/membership)Mediums Accepted: Painting, drawing, sculpture, mixed media, photography, digital art, fiber, ceramics, and more.Size Limit: 48” maximum width (including frame).Display-Ready: All 2D works must be wired and ready to hang. No sawtooth hangers permitted. Please make sure to read our Exhibit Guidelines before submitting.Labeling: Each piece must include artist name, title, medium, and price clearly labeled on the back or base.Sales: MCA retains a 30% commission on all works sold during the exhibit. Exhibiting artworks MUST be for sale (no exceptions). Delivery Date: Monday, February 2, 2026 (10am - 4pm)Pick Up Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026 (11am - 4pm)

Learn More!
Florida Defenders of the Environment: fladefenders.orgMarion Cultural Alliance: mcaocala.org
Having trouble navigating ArtCall? Click here for a quick step-by-step tutorial guided by MCA! Or watch the video tutorial below.