Artists needed for annual American Craft Exposition
The Auxiliary of NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) announced applications for the 2021 American Craft Exposition are open now through March 15.
This year, ACE will be held Sept. 24-26 at the Chicago Botanic Garden. The show will kick off with a Benefit Preview Party, where guests get a sneak peek at the museum-quality artwork.
Applicants can visit americancraftexpo.org/application for details or email ace@northshore.org.
As one of the country's longest running premier fine craft shows, ACE brings together 100 artisans exhibiting one-of-a-kind pieces, luxury collections and creative, museum quality artwork. Eligible media categories include baskets, ceramics, fiber decorative, fiber wearable, furniture, glass and jewelry.
ACE is a highly competitive juried show featuring handcrafted work and is open to all craftsmen who are residents of and are working in the United States. Work must be produced by the craftsmen or under their personal supervision. Work should be made by hand or with appropriate tools.
"This year brought many challenges for artists and art shows due to COVID-19. ACE is committed to creating new and exciting ways to support artists and bring awareness to their work, including additional partnerships, social promotions and virtual opportunities," said ACE co-chair Kathy Gianaras.
"To encourage the participation of craftsmen who are beginning their careers, we will continue to welcome emerging artists," said ACE co-chair Alexis Washa. "This option is open only to those who have been practicing their craft for less than six years and who have never exhibited at ACE."
Applicants must use the electronic application and submit five images for consideration by the jury. Images must be of current work and representative of work the applicant plans to exhibit at the show. Contractual information will be sent by email to all artists who have been accepted or wait-listed by April 22.
Each year, more than 8,500 guests attend ACE. Though NorthShore does not receive proceeds from artist sales, many artists choose to support NorthShore by participating in the voluntary "Craft for a Cause" program, whereby artists make a contribution to ACE's funding cause.
If an in-person ACE show is prohibited due to COVID-19 restrictions, for the safety of the artists, guests and volunteers, contractual information for a virtual ACE show will be emailed to all artists who have been accepted or wait-listed.
The 37th annual American Craft Exposition will be organized by Gianaras and Washa with the ACE volunteer committee. Tickets for ACE 2021 will be available in the summer.
The Auxiliary of NorthShore University HealthSystem supports the hospitals and community of NorthShore not only through their fundraising events, but also through various service projects.
Philanthropic donations of time and talent help the auxiliary serve the community with an annual nursing scholarship, diaper drives for families in need and more.
For information or to volunteer for any of these projects, contact auxiliary@northshore.org or call (224) 364-7270.