Cleveland County Artist Competition

May 21 – June 27, 2026

The Cleveland County Artists Competition is an annual exhibition celebrating the work of local artists. Open to both emerging and established creatives, this exhibition highlights the diversity of talent across Cleveland County and provides an opportunity for recognition, exhibition and sales.

Eligibility

Open to artists 18 years and older
Must be a Cleveland County resident or a full-time student at a Cleveland County college or university
Work must be original, completed within the last 2 years, and not previously exhibited in this competition

Accepted Categories

Entries may be two- or three-dimensional, including:

Painting
Drawing
Sculpture
Mixed Media
Printmaking
Fine Craft

Entry Details

$35 for up to 2 entries
$5 for each additional entry (maximum of 4 total)
We will be accepting online submissions through May 15.
Physical artwork can be dropped off at the Cleveland County Arts Council on May 14 and 15

Submit your work here:
https://ccartscouncil.org/pages/cleveland-cty-artists-competition-submission-form

Pay entry fee here:
https://ccartscouncil.org/products/cleveland-county-artist-competition

Artwork Requirements

All 2D work must be ready to hang with wire (no sawtooth hangers)
Work must be labeled at the time of drop-off
Artwork drop-off dates: May 14 & 15
The Arts Council reserves the right to reject work requiring special installation

Sales

The Cleveland County Arts Council encourages work to be for sale.

All artwork will be considered for sale unless marked "Not for Sale" at entry
The Arts Council retains a 35% commission on all sales
Prices may not be changed during the exhibition

Awards

First Place: $500
Second Place: $250
Third Place: $125
Three Honorable Mentions: $50 each

Awards will be presented at the opening reception.