New Artist [AVL 2026]

Are you a designer, bootleg or art toy maker?

Are you are interested in participating in an echo chamber of inspiration, and surrounding yourself with your people?

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Is your work eclectic &/or retro, complimenting the art toy subculture? 

Yes? Then you are exactly where you need to be...

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THE ASHEVILLE DESIGNER ART-TOY EXPO honors the 3D, handmade artform of the designer, bootleg, and art toy culture. Having just hosted YEAR ONE of the Designer Toy/Art Festival in Philadelphia in August 2025, this February 2026 event marks the eighth year in operation for the Expo. As the premiere destination for independent makers from across the North America, *Assembly Required honors this melting pot of artistic expression, inspired by pop culture and street art.

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As this is a curated event, please use this application to submit examples of your work. This will allow us to review your work so that we may stay true to the identity, focus and theme of of the the show, and  determine your eligibility.

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SHARING BOOTH SPACE:

We LOVE to to spread the love! This platform allows for a single applicant to submit a single application. If you want to share a space with another artist(s), please add their name(s) & email address(s) to the field requesting it below and an application form will be sent to them directly.

If you decide at a later date to share your space, please let us know as soon as possible. Remember - this is a curated event and all artists must be approved. Deviation from this policy will impact eligibility in future *Assembly Required events. 

Please feel free to contact us if you have any additional questions about this or anything else at UnboxingAsheville@gmail.com or DM us on Instagram at @_AssemblyRequired_ .

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ELECTRICITY:

There is plenty of electricity in the Battery Park Hall, so requesting it in advance is not necessary. That being said, if you DO require electricity, it is your responsibility to bring an extension cord (25' cord recommended) and surge protector. 

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BADGES & LANYARDS:

Each space comes with a single BADGE, LANYARD and chair. Additional badges can be purchased ala-carte below, if you choose to include that with your registration. If you would like to share a table with another artist, you can elect that badge charge be included in the shared application form that we send them. You would just need to let us know when you submit your application. An additional chair will be included with each additional badge/lanyard. 

Everyone behind an expo table is required to have an event badge and lanyard.    

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Credit Cards are NOT charged upon applying.

Credit Cards are ONLY charged as a registration fee if you are approved to participate. 

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CANCELLATION:

Submission of an application and payment of the Registration Fee constitutes a firm commitment to participate. We try to be responsive and respectful of your life changes, we ask for you to communicate swiftly and directly if you are making a change to your plan to attend.

Cancellations with refunds will adhere to the following dates:

* 100% refund of Registration Fee if written cancellation is received on or before September 30, 2025
• 50% refund of the Registration Fee if written cancellation is received on or before October 31, 2025
• Event costs will be considered fully invested on or after December 1, 2025, and will not be eligible for refund

This policy ensures consistency and fairness for all artists.

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HOTEL ROOM BLOCKS:

The event has secured discounted room blocks for artists tabling at the Expo at three local hotels. Those range from $79-$119.

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