Call for Artists

Treasures of the Earth 2026**
Presented by the Cleveland County Arts Council

Applications open Dec 15– Jan 15 | Juried Show Participation is FREE.

Get ready for a completely reimagined Treasures of the Earth 2026, a juried exhibition and artisan marketplace celebrating natural materials and the makers who transform them. This year’s event has been fully refreshed and expanded, giving artists a dynamic opportunity to showcase their work, share their story, and connect with a growing creative community.

 

Event Dates

Exhibition: February 12 – March 18, 2026
Opening Reception: February 12, 5–7 PM
Set-Up Days: Monday, Feb 9 & Tuesday, Feb 10, 9 AM – 4 PM
Bowl-ing for Dollars Fundraiser: February 26, 2026

 

ARTISTS WE ARE SEEKING

We welcome makers whose work is rooted in earth-based, natural, or handcrafted materials.

Core Participants

  • Functional potters

  • Sculptural ceramicists

  • Raku artists

  • Woodturners

  • Woodworkers

  • Stone carvers

  • Natural-material jewelers

  • Blacksmiths

  • Fiber artists using natural dyes
  • Glass artists (blown, fused, stained)

  • Nature-inspired fine art

  • Handmade soaps using natural pigments

  • Botanicals and natural apothecary goods

  • Basket weavers

  • Folk art made from reclaimed or earth-based materials

If your work honors nature, craftsmanship, and earth-centered materials, we want to hear from you.

 

WHAT MAKES 2026 SPECIAL

8×4 ft Artist-Branded Gallery Spaces

Each selected artist will receive an 8×4 foot space to brand and merchandise in their own style.

Artists are encouraged to use both vertical and horizontal space to create compelling, intentional, and visually engaging mini-galleries that reflect their brand.

Participation is FREE.
Space is limited.

 

Support CCAC: Bowl-ing for Dollars

Treasures of the Earth runs alongside our popular Bowl-ing for Dollars fundraiser on February 26.

We are seeking donations of handcrafted artisanal bowls to support CCAC’s programming, youth classes, exhibitions, and community arts initiatives.

Donating artists will receive recognition throughout the exhibition and fundraiser.

 

Additional Opportunities

We’re also looking for:

  • Live demonstrations

  • Artist storytelling sessions

  • Makers interested in teaching workshops or classes

These optional opportunities help bring the exhibition to life and deepen community engagement.

 

HOW TO APPLY

Application Window:  December 15 - January 15, 2026
Notification: Artists will be notified of acceptance by Friday, January 23.

Email Your Submission To:

donna@ccartscouncil.org

Please use the subject line:
“Treasures of the Earth Submission – [Your Name]”

Include the Following in Your Submission:

  • 3–5 photos of your artwork

    • Clear, well-lit images

    • Show a variety of pieces that represent your style

    • Optional but helpful: one photo of a previous display or booth

  • Artist statement

    • 1–2 paragraphs about your work, materials, and inspiration

    • How your work connects to earth-based or natural materials

  • Contact information

    • Name and business name

    • Phone number

    • City/State

    • Website and/or social media links

    • Email

  • Medium .

  • Price range & scale of work

    • Typical price range (ex: $25–$250)

    • General size range (small, medium, large pieces)

  • Display needs (if any)

    • Note if you require pedestals, access to electricity, or have larger pieces

  • Additional opportunities 
    Please indicate if you are interested in:

    • Donating handcrafted bowls for Bowl-ing for Dollars

    • Providing a live demonstration

    • Participating in an artist talk/storytelling session

    • Teaching a class or workshop at CCAC in the future

  • Sales from the exhibition contribute to the Arts Council’s mission, with a 35 percent commission applied to all artwork sold.

LET’S CREATE SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY

Treasures of the Earth is a beloved community tradition, and 2026 marks a bold new chapter. With elevated curation, refreshed energy, and a celebration of exceptional craftsmanship, this year’s exhibition is one you won’t want to miss.