Norfolk Arts presents “Rhythm of the Stage” at The Gallery at the Attucks April 17, 2026 – October 16, 2026.
No fee to apply. Artists 18 years of age or older with a connection to Hampton Roads are invited to submit up to (3) jpg or png images of 2-dimensional contemporary works created in any visual medium not to exceed 50lbs.

For more than a century, the Attucks Theatre has stood as a cornerstone of Black artistry and cultural life in Norfolk. Built in 1919 by and for the Black community, the Attucks became a celebrated stop for the greatest performers of its time — a place where music, movement, and storytelling shaped generations. Today, the theatre continues to honor that legacy, serving as a vibrant home for creativity and a testament to the enduring power of Black cultural expression. The Gallery at The Attucks continues this legacy by expanding the theatre’s stage into a visual arts space.

Artists are invited to submit work that expresses the themes of movement, pattern, and performance. This exhibition celebrates the shared language between the performing and visual arts — rhythm, repetition, gesture, harmony, improvisation, storytelling, and history. Artists are encouraged to interpret the theme broadly, to reflect on the underlying structures, sensations, and histories that connect what happens on a stage to what happens in the studio. Works may reflect the spirit of performance, the architecture or history of the Attucks, the energy of music and dance, the patterns of daily life, or the rhythms found in nature, culture, and community.

The theme is intentionally open to welcome a wide range of artistic voices, styles, and approaches. While the call is open to all artists 18 and older, we especially encourage Black artists and artists whose work resonates with the cultural legacy of the Attucks Theatre to apply.

Artwork selection
Rhythms of the Stage will be curated by Nyree Dowdy, Art Bridges Curatorial Fellow, Chrysler Museum of Art.

Application Requirements
Applicants can submit
• Up to 3 works of 2-dimensional art for consideration (High-resolution images, 72 dpi minimum)
• Title, medium, dimensions, year, and a brief description for each work
• Artist bio (max 250 words)
• Artist statement (max 300 words)
• Contact information
Submissions will be accepted only via EntryThingy at norfolkarts.net No email or physical submissions will be accepted.

Calendar
Submission Deadline March 1, 2026 (11:59 PM EDT)
Notification of Acceptance Mid-March 2026
Artwork Drop-Off Saturday, April 11, 2026, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Opening Celebration April 17, 2026
Artwork Pick-up October 17, 2026

Installation & Presentation Requirements
• All accepted works must be in a finished state, ready for professional installation including secure hanging hardware. No sawtooth.
• 2D work must weigh under 50 lbs. and be framed including secure hanging hardware.
• Artists are responsible for all delivery, pickup, and any shipping costs.

We reserve the right to exclude works that do not meet professional presentation standards or differ significantly from digital submission.

Insurance & Liability
While all reasonable care will be taken, The Attucks Theatre and its partners are not responsible for any damage or loss during shipping, delivery, installation, or exhibition. Artists are encouraged to carry their own insurance.

Additional Programming
Additional events, such as artist talks, workshops, and community programming, may be planned as part of the exhibition experience later. Please express any ideas for community engagement events in your application.

Sale of Artwork
• Works may be for sale or not for sale (NFS).
• Work must remain on display for the duration of the exhibition.
• All sales inquiries will be forwarded directly to the artist.
• No commission will be taken.

Questions: publicart@norfolk.gov

Learn more and Submit via Entry Thingy below!