It's Touching: Juried Tactile Art Exhibition

The Hearst Center for the Arts is hosting "It's Touching," a juried community exhibition that celebrates tactile art and sensory engagement. This innovative exhibition explores how texture, form, and material shape audience experiences with art, with a specific emphasis on works designed to be safely and intentionally touched by the public.

The exhibition aims to broaden access to art experiences by encouraging engagement that extends beyond sight alone, acknowledging that meaningful artistic connections can be made through multiple senses. This inclusive approach makes art more accessible to visitors of all abilities.

The call for submissions is open to artists aged 18 and older who live or work in the Cedar Valley and surrounding region. Artists may submit either existing or newly created 2D or 3D works, provided each piece includes a tactile or sensory element suitable for repeated public interaction. All selected works must be durable, stable, and appropriate for display in a public gallery setting.

Up to 12 artists will be selected through a juried review process conducted by the Cedar Falls Art & Culture Board. Selection will be based on three criteria: artistic quality, clarity of concept, and suitability for safe tactile engagement. Each selected artist will receive a $250 honorarium for their participation.

The exhibition will be on view from June 4 through August 2, free and open to the public. During the exhibition, visitors will be invited to participate in a community voting process, with one Best in Show – Community & Accessibility award presented at the exhibition's close.

Funding for the exhibition is provided in part by the Cedar Falls Community Foundation and Friends of the Hearst. This opportunity represents a significant commitment to accessible, inclusive art experiences that challenge traditional notions of how people interact with creative work.