Orion Art Center Exhibit Guidelines:
“Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant”
To ensure a professional experience, all participating artists must follow these rules. Non-compliance may result in artwork being refused.
Eligibility & Theme
Open Mediums: All media accepted if relevant to the exhibit theme inspired by Curtis Chin's Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant.
Original Work: No copies or reproductions (except fine art prints labeled and numbered as editions).
Copyright: Respect all copyright laws.
Makerspace Requirement: All participants must use the makerspace at the Orion Township Public Library to incorporate at least one element created with makerspace equipment into their artwork.
➤ For assistance or information about the makerspace, contact Julie Sugg at the Orion Township Public Library.
Artwork Specifications
Size Limits:
2D: Max 48” W x 48” H
2D Presentation:
Must be framed or gallery-wrapped (no visible staples).
Use clean, scratch-free glass/Plexiglas and secure hanging wire (no sawtooth hangers).
Dust covers and mats must be intact and clean.
Artwork must be dry at submission.
3D: Max 36” circumference x 60” H
3D Presentation:
Pedestals available upon request; provide custom display if needed.
Must be stable enough to withstand minor jostling.
Exhibit Requirements
No artwork substitutions or early withdrawals.
All entries are reviewed for compliance.
Final inclusion is at the sole discretion of Holly Nicosia, Executive Director of the Orion Art Center (non-negotiable).
Content Restrictions:
Submissions with explicit, discriminatory, or violent themes may be declined.
Logistics & Responsibilities
Artwork is left at artist’s risk. Orion Art Center is not liable for damage/loss but takes precautions.
Artists are responsible for transporting their work to/from OAC and OTPL.
Art must be picked up within 14 days after the exhibit closes or it becomes OAC property (unless otherwise arranged).
Sales
“Not for Sale” (NFS) or “Price on Request” (POR) accepted.
30% commission retained by OAC on all sales; artists receive 70%.
Sales forms must be signed upon drop-off.
Payments processed 45–60 days after exhibit ends.
Fees & Awards
Entry Fee: $30 (non-refundable)
Pay by digital invoice or check (payable to Orion Art Center, memo: "The Art of Storytelling").
Awards: 1st Prize $100, Runner-up $50 (checks mailed within 30 days of announcement).
Important Dates
Exhibit: September 6 through 27, 2025
Opening Reception: Saturday, September 6, at 6:00pm
Entry Deadline: August 1, 2025
Limited to 15 entries; selection based on quality.
Artwork Drop off: August 28 & 29, 2025 8:30 am to 2:00 pm or September 2, 2025 5:30 to 7:30 pm
Extras
All participants receive a copy of Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant by Curtis Chin.
Artists will have opportunities to meet OTPL staff and explore how to incorporate makerspace tools into their work.
Questions? Contact:
Orion Art Center: Holly Nicosia – 📧 director@orionartcenter.org
Library Makerspace Info: Julie Sugg – 📧 jsugg@orionlibrary.org