Mardi Gras in the Mountains Open Art Exhibition
Call for artists to submit original fine art and craft celebrating Mardi Gras and carnival season with a mountain creativity twist.
The Transylvania Community Arts Council is hosting an open exhibition titled "Mardi Gras in the Mountains: Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!" running from January 16 through February 21, 2026. This exhibition welcomes artists of all ages and experience levels to create and submit works in any visual medium (excluding film and video) that capture the spirit, colors, and essence of Mardi Gras and carnival season with a mountain perspective.
Mardi Gras represents a worldwide tradition celebrating before the beginning of Lent, characterized by vibrant colors, elaborate costumes, lively music, and indulgent festivities. The largest U.S. celebration occurs in New Orleans with over one million visitors annually. This exhibition provides an opportunity for artists to escape reality and explore the revelry, mystery, community, and fantasy evoked by Mardi Gras while incorporating mountain aesthetics.
All submitted artwork must be original and thematically aligned with the exhibition concept, which can be broadly interpreted. Artists may incorporate iconic purple, green, and gold colors alongside other elements to depict the celebration's essential characteristics. The registration fee is $10 per artwork piece with a maximum of three submissions. Arts council members at the $100 level or higher receive waived fees. All artwork, registration forms, and fees must be delivered to the gallery on Tuesday, January 14, 2026, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.