The City of Southport, in partnership with the Brunswick Arts Council, is excited to announce that the Fort Johnston–Southport Museum & Visitors’ Center is inviting local artists to apply for Crafting the American Story: Art, Identity, & History, an exhibition celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The exhibition will open February 21, 2026, at the Southport Community Building.
This exhibition will celebrate the boundless creativity of Americans, both past and present, and explore how creativity serves not only as artistic expression but also as a powerful catalyst for change. We invite artists to engage with materials and processes that reflect the diverse and multifaceted nature of American creativity over the past 250 years—highlighting the resilience, adaptability, and vision that have shaped our collective journey, even in times of adversity.
This exhibit seeks to uncover the vibrant manifestations of creativity in local contexts, highlighting the history, culture, and innovation of American ingenuity in Brunswick County. From graphic arts, sculpture and handcrafts, this exhibit will explore how creativity emerges both from adversity and joy and how diverse perspectives enrich our cultural fabric.
Theme/Concept
The creative arts and history are inseparable. Art is shaped by the events and contexts of the past, and it can interpret history in ways that make the past feel immediate and personal, offering depth and emotion beyond what traditional exhibits can convey. Crafting the American Story: Art, Identity, & History seeks to uncover the vibrant manifestations of creativity in local contexts, emphasizing the history, culture, and innovation of American ingenuity in Brunswick County. From graphic arts and sculpture to handcrafts and beyond, artists are encouraged to explore how creativity has been shaped by history—born from moments of adversity, triumph, and cultural transformation. This exhibition seeks works that reflect historical events or themes, capturing the ways in which art serves as both a response to and a record of our nation’s past. Whether inspired by movements of resilience, expressions of identity, or the evolution of American culture, submissions should engage with history as both inspiration and catalyst for change.
Artists should consider how their work can:
- Inspire public engagement by sparking dialogue and reflection on history
- Celebrate North Carolina’s rich heritage and its contributions to the American story
- Represent diverse perspectives, ensuring inclusivity and connection to identity
- Showcase the power of art as a storytelling medium, preserving narratives through visual expression
- Expand the definition of craft and artistic legacy, highlighting the significance of different forms of creative work
Through this exhibition, we aim to create a space where history is not only remembered but actively interpreted through art—where past and present converge to inspire a future shaped by creativity and understanding. We welcome Brunswick County artists of all backgrounds to contribute their vision and voice to this collective exploration of American history.
Eligibility:
- Open to artists 18 years or older, residing in Brunswick County, NC.
- All artwork must be original and created by the submitting artist.
- Artists may submit one artwork for consideration.
Submission Guidelines:
- All artwork must be ready to display at the time of delivery.
- 2D Artwork: Minimum size 12" x 12", maximum size 36" x 36" (including frame). All 2D works must be suitably framed, securely wired, and ready to hang (no sawtooth hangers).
- 3D Artwork: Maximum size 24" x 24" x 24". Artists must provide their own display stand.
- No video, digital, or installation works will be accepted.
Optional County-Wide Exhibition Opportunity
Artists participating in Crafting the American Story: Art, Identity, & History will have the opportunity to extend their exhibition beyond the initial showcase at the Southport Community Building. Select works may be chosen for display at various community partner locations and businesses throughout Brunswick County from March 7, 2026, through February 20, 2027.
Artists who wish to be considered for this extended exhibition must indicate their interest in the application form. However, expressing interest does not guarantee selection, as only a limited number of spots will be available.
Important Requirements:
- Artist Responsibility for Transport: If selected, artists will be responsible for transporting their artwork from the Southport Community Building to their assigned county location. The City of Southport and exhibition organizers will not provide transportation services.
- Commitment Requirement: Artists selected for the county-wide exhibition must agree to keep their work on display for the full duration of the extended exhibition period. Early withdrawal of artwork will not be permitted once participation is confirmed. Artwork may be on display for only a portion of the county-wide exhibition period.
This extended exhibition offers a unique opportunity for additional exposure and engagement with diverse audiences across Brunswick County. However, artists should carefully consider their ability to meet these requirements before opting in.
Jury Process:
- All work will be juried by a selection committee using the online images submitted by artists.
- All committee selections are final.
People’s Choice Award
During the exhibition, visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite artwork as part of the People’s Choice Award. At the conclusion of the exhibition, the artist whose work receives the most votes will be awarded a prize (to be determined). More details about the award and voting process will be announced closer to the exhibition dates.
Please read the Terms & Conditions for additional information.
