Los Vivos y Los Muertos 2026

Fourth annual juried exhibition honouring the cultures, heritage and traditions of Mexico and the southwest United States, centred on work inspired by Día de los Muertos. Photography is an explicitly eligible medium alongside painting, drawing, mixed media, ceramics, sculpture, metal, wood and fibre; all genres and styles that fit the theme are considered, 2D and 3D. Open nationwide to established and emerging artists aged 14 and above — the prospectus defines emerging as hobbyists or artists still developing their practice with little public recognition, and established as professionals whose main economic activity is making art. Up to three works may be entered, each with year, size, medium, an artist statement and a 50–80 word note on the inspiration behind the piece. Work previously submitted to the 2023, 2024 or 2025 editions is not eligible, and pieces may not exceed 48 inches in any direction or 20 pounds. The show is curated by visual art professionals and forms part of a month-long, county-wide Día de Muertos celebration mounted with Lake Jackson Historical Association, Freeport Historical Museum, Brazoria County Historical Museum, Brazosport LULAC and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Brazoria County. Selected work hangs at The Center for the Arts & Sciences in Clute, Texas from 6 October to 2 November 2026, with a reception and awards presentation on 9 October. Accepted work is hand delivered or shipped to Clute by 2 October — non-local artists cover shipping both ways and must include a pre-paid, insured return label. Due to the family-friendly venue, nudity and highly controversial subject matter will not be selected.