2026
The National Conference of Artists
Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Art Exhibition
January 17 to March 31, 2026
Website - www.nolamlkexhibit.org
Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/nolamlkexhibit
Email – nolamlkexhibit@gmail.com
LOVE IN ACTION:
AFRICAN ROOTS/AMERICAN FRUITS
Purpose: The NCA MLK Exhibition celebrates the life and legacy of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Civil Rights Movement, and those working to further peace and human understanding. Through the arts, we give recognition to the people around the world who work tirelessly to fight for peace, justice, and responsible environmental cohabitation.
Theme: Love in Action: African Roots/ American Fruits – Martin Luther King Jr. in his sermon Love in Action stressed forgiveness of people’s ignorance and “tragic blindness” as it pertains to their harmful actions. The National Conference of Artists is commemorating the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in the United States in 1526 by the expression African Roots/American Fruits.
Exhibition Location: Ashé Cultural Arts Center, 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70125
Important Dates:
· November 22, 2025 - Application deadline only through OnlineJuriedShows
· November 29, 2025 - Artist’s acceptance notifications
· January 17, 2026 - Opening reception
· January 7, 2026 – Receipt of artwork for exhibition
· March 28, 2026 – Awards announcement
· March 31, 2026 - Exhibition closes
Eligibility:
· We will accept applications only through OnlineJuriedShows. Log in on this page and click Enter This Show to begin your submissions.
· Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
· No applications will be accepted after the November 22, 2025, deadline.
· Art submitted for consideration must be created within the last five years reflect the exhibition theme: Love in Action: African Roots/ American Fruits.
· Art dimensions must be greater than 12 inches on any side and not more than 48 inches wide.
· Only original artwork will be accepted, no reproductions or artist enhanced giclée.
· The artist or designated representative must install three-dimensional artwork weighing more than 30 pounds.
· The galleries reserve the right to exclude any artwork they deem unsuitable for display.
Entry Fee: A $30 non-refundable entry fee is part of the application process for up to three entries. No exceptions!
Digital Image Format for Submission:
While using the online process, applicants should:
· Follow entry instructions
· Send digital images (jpg/jpeg) formatted with a resolution of 300 dpi and 1500 pixels on the longest side.
· No frame, mat, easel, etc. should appear in the image file.
· Each image file may be no larger than 4 Mb in size.
· Show two images of sculpture
· For help with your entries contact onlinejuriedshows@gmail.com or 888-666-1351.
Notification: The MLK Exhibition Council will send the juror’s acceptance decision to artists. Accepted artists will get specific instructions for exhibition participation.
Sales: There are 30% commissions on artwork sold during or as a result of the exhibition. The artist or artist representative will receive 100% of the sale price. Purchasers will pay the commission fees and applicable sales tax.
Awards: The MLK Exhibition Council will give cash awards to artists whose artworks best depict the exhibition’s theme.
Sending and Returning Art: Artists are responsible for delivering or shipping their art for the exhibition. The MLK Exhibition Council will pay the return shipping cost for destinations more than 50 miles from New Orleans.
Application Assistance: Please contact onlinejuriedshows@gmail.com if help with your submission is needed.
Exhibition Questions: If you have questions or need information about the exhibition contact Charlie T. Johnson at 504-715-8137 or nolamlkexhibit@gmail.com.