2nd Annual Kit Gilbert Juried Showcase

An open, themeless juried showcase at the Gilbert Center in downtown Ruston, Louisiana — a legacy project of the Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation that carries forward the work of two local artists, Ross Lynn and Kit Gilbert, the Ruston painter this annual show is named for. There is no set subject: any original work made since 2020 is welcome, and photography is explicitly among the media considered alongside painting, sculpture, mixed media, textile, ceramics and short video. The juror is Julie Crews, an oil painter based in Huntsville, Alabama who keeps an open studio and gallery at the 122-year-old Lowe Mill Arts and Entertainment complex and paints the domestic scenes of her own life — backyard fires, children swimming, errands around town. Two cash awards: the Juror's Choice / Best-in-Show at $750, and a People's Choice at $500 voted by visitors on opening night. Open to US artists 18 and over, up to three works, each needing a 250-word artist statement. AI-generated work is not accepted. Photographs must be framed or mounted — unframed works on paper and unmounted prints will be rejected — and artists arrange their own delivery and return shipping. Notifications 19 October, work due 7 November, exhibition 16 November 2026 – 15 January 2027 with a reception on 19 November. The Gilbert Center takes 30% commission.