A $20,000 Opportunity: Arkansas Seeks Artist to Capture State’s History

Arkansas is preparing to mark America’s 250th anniversary with a work of art that reflects the state’s own history and culture.

A Call for Arkansas Artists

The Arkansas250 Commission, along with the Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism and the Arkansas Arts Council, are calling all artists to create a commissioned painting that highlights Arkansas’s role in shaping the American story.

Shea Lewis, Secretary of Parks, Heritage and Tourism and Chair of the Arkansas250 Commission, stated in a press release,

Art has always been one of the most powerful ways to tell a story, and this commissioned piece will help capture Arkansas’ role in America’s journey over the past 250 years.

 

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What the Project Involves

The selected artist will be commissioned to produce an acrylic or oil painting on a 36” x  48” wood-supported canvas in a realistic style. The finished artwork will become part of the state’s permanent collection and be displayed at the Division of Arkansas Heritage museums.

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There will also be opportunities for the artwork to be displayed in state government buildings, including the Capitol. The chosen piece will be purchased for $20,000.

How to Apply for The Arkansas Painting Competition

To apply, artists must be at least 18, a U.S. citizen, and an Arkansas resident for at least one year. Applications should include up to three sample drawings, a resume, artist’s statement, and portfolio materials. A panel will narrow the field to three to five finalists before making the final selection.

Deadlines

Proposals are due November 1, 2025, and the completed work is due by March 1, 2026. More information is available at arkansasheritage.com.

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