Calls for Artists

Dart for Art is Crooked Tree Arts Center’s signature summer fundraiser, bringing together artists, collectors, and community members for a two-night celebration of original artwork. During Preview Night, guests view the exhibition and vote on award-winning pieces, and on Dart Night, ticketed participants “dart” to randomly select and take home a work of art. All donated artwork is exhibited, eligible for cash prizes, and becomes part of an energetic, collector-driven experience that connects artists with new audiences.

If you are interested in donating artwork to Dart for Art, complete this form for submission by Tuesday, June 2. Artwork, images, and catalog information must be received by June 2nd to be eligible for prizes. No exceptions.

We kindly request that artwork have a minimum value of $250 and a maximum dimension of 36” in any single dimension (including frame). Works composed of multiple canvases or panels will not be accepted and most elements of the piece need to be attached. Oversized works may be considered on a case-by-case basis; please contact alissa@crookedtree.org for exceptions. Works cannot be returned to the artist. All donated items become the property of CTAC and will be used in fundraising efforts. Submissions are limited to two (2) works per artist.

CONTAINER: A Call for Art
Crooked Tree Arts Center invites artists to explore the concept of the CONTAINER — both as a physical form and as a metaphor. From functional pottery and sculptural containers to symbolic interpretations in two-dimensional work, CONTAINER examines the many ways we hold, carry, and contain meaning.
Artists are encouraged to submit three-dimensional vessels and container-based works, and/or two dimensional pieces that exemplify the concept, while also exploring how the idea of a container can extend beyond form. A container may represent the body, memory, identity, culture, landscape, or spirit. It may hold objects, stories, emotions, or energy. It may suggest protection, preservation, fragility, or transformation.
This exhibition welcomes a broad interpretation of “container” inviting artists to consider themes of containment and release, interior and exterior, fullness and emptiness, function and symbolism. Works may be literal or abstract, traditional or experimental, intimate or monumental.
All mediums are welcome, including but not limited to ceramics, glass, fiber, metal, wood, painting, drawing, photography, and mixed media. Artists of all career stages are encouraged to apply.

Apply Here

Call for Art: Cherry State of Mind
Open to Michigan Artists

Traverse City is known around the world as Cherry Country, and in 2026 the community celebrates the 100th anniversary of the beloved National Cherry Festival. This open call exhibition invites artists to explore the many ways cherries shape the identity, culture, and landscape of Northern Michigan and everywhere cherries are grown or enjoyed.

From orchard rows and spring blossoms to the rich reds of harvest, artists are encouraged to interpret the cherry in all its forms. Submissions may reflect the agricultural beauty of cherry orchards, the traditions of harvest season, the industry and labor behind the fruit, or the playful and nostalgic imagery cherries inspire—from pie and preserves to festival celebrations and iconic cherry red.

Artists may also explore cherries symbolically: as markers of place, memory, tradition, abundance, or transformation—from blossom to fruit to pit.

All mediums are welcome, including painting, photography, ceramics, fiber, glass, sculpture, printmaking, and mixed media. Artists are invited to interpret the theme broadly, celebrating both the visual beauty and cultural significance of cherries in Northern Michigan and beyond.

Apply Here

Design a Poster/T-Shirt to promote the 46th Annual Suttons Bay Art Festival

AWARD OF $300.00 for Adult Category (18 and older)
AWARD of $100.00 for Youth Category (17 and under)
DEADLINE to apply is May 18

Competition Rules:
Open to Michigan Artists.
All graphic media is acceptable: Paint, markers, photography, digital art, crayons, chalk, etc.
We are seeking original artwork for the official poster of the 46th Annual Suttons Bay Art Festival, taking place on August 1 & 2, 2026 at the Suttons Bay Marina. This is an exciting opportunity for artists to showcase their work and contribute to a celebrated community event.

To apply. Please read the rules and guidelines below. Complete the google form here to submit your application and upload an image of your artwork. If you need assistance with the form please contact Brian at brian@crookedtree.org or 231.629.4549

Poster Requirements:

• Poster Size: 11x17 inches
• Must include the following text in the design:
• 46th Annual Suttons Bay Art Festival
• August 1 & 2, 2026
• Suttons Bay Marina

Submission Details:

• All artwork must be original and previously unpublished
• Artist's signature must be included in the design
• Artwork must be camera ready and high resolution
• No entry fee
• Artists may submit an unlimited number of designs
• Submit designs to Brian Iler at brian@crookedtree.org

Terms and Conditions

• Poster entries will be judged by the Suttons Bay Art Festival committee.
• Applicants will be notified by June 1.
• The winning entry selected for the Poster and Tshirt design will be printed in full color by a printer selected by the Art Festival committee.
• Fees and print costs will be the responsibility of Crooked Tree Arts Center.
• All reproduction rights and use rights will belong to Crooked Tree Arts Center.
• The winning adult design will be used to print t-shirts and posters that will be sold at the art fair to support the Suttons Bay Art Festival.
• The winning youth design will have a limited printed poster production that will be sold at the art fair to support the Suttons Bay Art Festival.
• Artists will not receive any compensation for these sales outside of the award money as listed.

Apply Here

For more information, please contact:
Brian Iler, Gallery and Volunteer Manager
brian@crookedtree.org

Call for Young Artists (Ages 8–18)

Suttons Bay Art Festival Kids Tent

Are you a young artist ready to gain real-world experience selling your handmade art? We invite artists ages 8–18 to apply for a spot in the Kids Tent at the 46th Annual Suttons Bay Art Festival on Saturday, August 1, 2026.

Selected artists will have the opportunity to display and sell their original work to festival attendees. This is a great chance to learn about pricing, presentation, and customer interaction in a supportive and fun environment.

• Each selected artist will be provided with a 6-foot table space to showcase and sell their handmade art.
• Each artist is responsible for processing sales. All proceeds go directly to artist.
• Kids Tent Hours: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
• No fee to apply

A committee will review applicants. Artists will be notified by June 1.

Complete the Gooogle Form and submit three (3) images representative of the art that you will be selling.

For more information contact: Brian Iler, Gallery and Volunteer Manager

brian@crookedtree.org