08/20/2026
‘Spirit of the Wild’ invites artists to explore the profound connection between the human spirit and the natural world—the places where we go to breathe more deeply, listen more closely, and remember what truly matters.
Nature is more than landscape. It is a source of healing, inspiration, transformation, and renewal. From the rhythm of water and the shelter of trees to the fleeting beauty of flowers, changing skies, shifting light, and the textures of the earth, the natural world continually reminds us that we are part of something larger than ourselves.
This exhibition seeks artwork that captures the spirit, energy, emotion, and experience of nature. We encourage artists to look beyond literal representation and consider the ways nature speaks to our inner lives. How does a landscape make us feel? Where do we find stillness? What does the wild awaken within us? How can art express the resilience, impermanence, growth, and transformation found throughout the natural world?
Through color, texture, light, movement, form, and material, artists are invited to create works that encourage viewers to pause—to step away from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with the quiet wisdom and wild beauty that surrounds us.
♥️ Nature restores us.
🌿 Nature awakens us.
✨ Nature inspires us.
• Submission Deadline | September 12
• Exhibition Opens | October 7
• Artist Reception | October 10
• Artist Q+A and Exhibition Closing | November 15
• We are opening this call to include two student artists, between the ages of 10 to 17, in this exhibition.
➡️ For full submission guidelines and to apply, visit our website at: www.nocoartsnc.com/pages/exhibit-application
📍NoCo ARTS is located at 118 N. College Avenue in Downtown Newton, NC.
