31e édition du concours et de l'exposition d'art « Thomas Hart Benton »

The Neosho Arts Council invites artists aged 18 and older to submit original two‑dimensional works—painting, drawing, printmaking, mixed media, pastels, charcoal, ink—for the 31st Annual Thomas Hart Benton Art Competition and Exhibition. Entries may be entered in either the Emerging division (students or artists without gallery representation) or the Professional division (open to all). Works must be created within the past three years, not previously entered, and must adhere to size (max 36×36 inches) and weight (max 15 lb) limits. The competition excludes photography, digital, AI‑generated, giclee, high‑relief, and three‑dimensional works. The deadline for online registration is August 26 2026 (midnight); entries must be dropped off at the Big Spring Gallery on August 27‑28, 2026. Accepted works will be exhibited in September‑October 2026 at the Big Spring Gallery and online, and a public awards ceremony will be held on September 12, 2026. Cash prizes include $500 for Best of Show, $250/$200/$150 for Professional First/Second/Third, and $150/$100/$75 for Emerging First/Second/Third, plus merit awards. Application fees are $15 (members) or $20 (non‑members) for one entry, $20 (members) or $25 (non‑members) for two entries. The competition is an annual (recurring) event.

Exhibition at Big Spring Gallery and online; cash prizes; public awards ceremony; professional exposure

Artists 18+; Emerging division limited to students or artists without gallery representation; Professional open to all; only original 2‑D works (painting, drawing, printmaking, mixed media, pastels, charcoal, ink); no photography, digital, AI, giclee, high‑relief, or 3‑D works; size ≤36×36 in, weight ≤15 lb; works must be completed within past 3 years; must be framed/gallery‑wrapped.