2026 RISE Artist Submission Logo

  • 2026 RISE: Survivor Art Show Application

    Thank you for your interest in submitting artwork for The Blue Bench's fifth annual RISE Survivor Art Show.

  • The RISE Survivor Art Show features art by survivors of sexual violence throughout April in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM). The purpose of this show is to showcase the voices, stories, and healing journeys of survivors of sexual violence.

    The Blue Bench is a community of survivors, allies, and advocates working to prevent sexual violence and build a safe and supportive metro Denver. We work collaboratively to provide accessible, survivor-centered support services and empowering education.

    Learn more about The Blue Bench: thebluebench.org

    The fifth annual RISE Survivor Art Show will be held at the 40 West Gallery, 6501 W. Colfax Ave., Lakewood, CO 80214

    Important dates: (More details to come)

    • Submission deadline: Sunday, February 1st, 2026

    • Selection process: Artists will be notififed by a member of The Blue Bench team of their selection no later than March 1st, 2026

    • Artwork drop-off day: Sunday, March 29th, 2026

    • Artist-only reception: Saturday, April 4th, 2026

    • Exhibition run: Friday, April 3rd, 2026 through Saturday, April 25th, 2026

    • Artwork pick-up day: Sunday, April 26th, 2026

  • What to know:

    • This show is free to enter.

    • Artwork must relate to being a survivor of sexual violence.

      • You may only submit one piece of art this year.

        • We are accepting paintings, drawings, photography, written works, sculptures, textile artwork, and other mediums.

        • If you are interested in doing any type of performance piece or oral reading, please email Carolyn Ferrick at (cferrick@thebluebench.org) to discuss your ideas. 

        • Please consider the content of your work. Graphic, religious, political, or controversial pieces will be reviewed by The Blue Bench leadership for the final acceptance decision.

    • If selected, you will need to drop off your artwork at the gallery location. Instructions for drop off will be given at a later time.

      • If you are located outside of the metro area, the artist must cover the costs of transporting or mailing the piece to the gallery.

    • If selected, you are required to drop off your artwork wired and ready to be installed up to industry standards

      • Please have your canvases wired. If you need assistance wiring your piece, please let us know in the form below.

      • Any artwork or photographs done on paper need to be framed.

      • If you are submitting written work, please have it printed and framed with hanging hardware for drop off. If you have any other ways you'd like written pieces to be presented, please let us know in the form below. 

      • If you are submitting a sculpture, please provide your own pedestal.

    • All artists must read and agree to the Artist Expectations and Community Agreement.
      • Please proceed to the next page for agreement field

  • Required agreements:

  • Artwork Submission

    Please note: what is submitted below will be printed on a wall card if chosen for our exhibition.
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  • Social Media and Marketing

  • If you agree to the use of your artwork for social media and marketing purposes, please provide any handles or websites you'd like The Blue Bench to share when using your artwork.

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