Before you begin
Important: Please read the gallery policies before submitting your proposal.
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We invite painters to explore the spirit, emotion, and rhythm of jazz through visual art. In dialogue with Boone’s High Country Jazz Festival, The Art of Jazz: A Painted Response challenges artists to reflect on the question: What does jazz mean to you?
Artists are encouraged to interpret jazz in expressive, imaginative, or abstract ways, capturing its energy, improvisation, and cultural significance through painting. The exhibition offers a visual exploration of jazz that reflects the music and cultural conversations taking place throughout the High Country in the lead-up to and during the Jazz Festival season.
This juried exhibition will be presented at a venue to be announced and will be on view from May 5 through June 30, coinciding with the lead-up to Boone’s High Country Jazz Festival (June 10-14).
Requirements / Other Info:
- You may submit no more than 3 pieces for consideration in this exhibit.
- There is a $35 application fee
- Media: Painting only (watercolor, acrylic, oil, etc.)
- Presentation: Artwork must be ready to hang upon drop-off
- Size: Works must be 24 x 30 inches or smaller, including frames (frames are not required, but pieces must be hang ready if selected)
- Deadline: All works must be submitted for consideration via this form by March 6, 2026.
- Awards: Cash awards will be presented in connection with this exhibition. Details to be announced.
- All WAC exhibits are juried by a diverse panel of local artists, arts professionals, and arts business owners with backgrounds in various mediums.
- You will be notified on April 1st, 2026 of your application status.
The Art of Jazz is part of a broader celebration of jazz culture in the High Country, connecting visual artists with the music, history, and community surrounding the annual festival.
About Jazz Fest in Downtown Boone
The High Country Jazz Festival, Boone’s premier jazz celebration, brings live jazz music throughout the area each June. Held June 10 to June 14, 2026, the festival features performances by nationally and internationally acclaimed artists at venues such as the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country, along with outdoor concerts, free lawn performances, jazz brunches, lectures, workshops, and jam sessions that take place in and around downtown Boone and Blowing Rock. This vibrant multi-day event attracts music lovers to the High Country and energizes the community with world-class jazz and cultural experiences.