Request for Submissions

NOSTALGIA
Juried by Jeff Rider & Jody Valentine

Request for Submissions

Mainframe Studios is proud to present NOSTALGIA. 

Nostalgia explores how the past lives on in the present and shapes the way we see ourselves and the world around us. Through a range of mediums, artists draw from memory to revisit places, people, and moments that feel both distant and familiar. Some works offer comfort and longing, while others question what is real or remembered. Together, they invite viewers to consider how memory shifts over time and why certain experiences stay with us.

Submissions are welcome from a wide range of disciplines maintaining a reasonable connection to the theme.

All submissions are due by Sunday, May 3rd at 11:59 PM (CST), and late submissions will not be accepted. Artists will be notified tentatively by May 15, 2026. There is no entry fee to apply.

Accepted Works will be on display in multiple public gallery spaces at Mainframe Studios June through July 2026, with a special reception held during First Friday, June 5th, 2026 5-8pm. All participating artists are encouraged to attend. 

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Jurors:

Jeff Rider 
Rider uses mixed media in his work. Materials are various types of paints, 19th century cabinet photos and other paper products.

Jody Valentine
Jody Valentine is a mixed media artist whose work explores the intersections of history, memory, and identity. Working primarily with her own original photographs, Victorian cabinet card portraits, paint and collage, Valentine creates layered compositions that invite viewers to reflect on the passage of time and the ways in which images shape our personal and collective histories.

Exhibition Timeline 

All dates are 2026

Location: Mainframe Studios, 900 Keosauqua Way, Des Moines, IA 50309

Application requirements

To complete your application, you will need the following:

• Artist Bio (75 word max)
• Artist Statement that aligns with your submission (100 word max)

The following is needed for each piece submitted:

• Images - Accepts PNG or JPEG files. (3 per piece max)  (Please title images using the following format: LAST NAME_FIRST INITIAL_TITLE )
• Title
• Materials
• Size of work (include frames)
• Year completed
• Any special information such as installation requirements. 

Promotional Information (Optional)

• Website Link
• Social Media information
• A Photo of you with your artwork (Please title photos using the following format: LAST NAME_FIRST INITIAL)

Important notes:

• Once you begin the application, you cannot save and return later.
• Please be sure you have all materials ready before starting.
• The full application should take approximately 10 minutes to complete.

Exhibition Details

1. Eligibility: We invite artists (aged 16+) who live and create in Iowa to apply. All disciplines of work are welcome but must demonstrate a clear connection to the theme. Artists may submit up to three (3) pieces. 
    
2. Authenticity: All work must be original and created in the past 5 years. 
   
   
3. Exhibit-ready: All work must be ready for installation.  
   • Wire is suggested for most 2-D works.
   • Artwork should not weigh more than 75 pounds or measure over 5 feet in any direction although exceptions may be made.
   • Wet works will not be accepted. 
   • Fragile work or work that requires special equipment (TVs, speakers, projectors, etc.) will be the responsibility of the artist to install and remove.
     
     
4. Drop off/Pick up: Artists must be able to deliver their accepted artwork to Mainframe Studios and pick up during the scheduled times.
   
   • Due to capacity, artwork will not be shipped. 
   • Only accepted artworks will be included, pieces may not be swapped.
   • Late delivery may result in exclusion of the accepted piece from the exhibit.

5. This exhibition will be curated and juried by Jeff Rider and Jody Valentine. Recognition will be awarded in the following categories: Best of Show, First Place, Second Place, and Third Place, celebrating outstanding artistic achievement across the exhibition. In addition, a People’s Choice Award will be selected by Mainframe guests through on-site voting for their favorite work in the exhibition.

   If you have questions please reach out to Libby Crimmings, Community Engagement Coordinator at: Libby@mainframestudios.org. (Please do not contact the Jurors) 

Important Information & Agreement:

1. All works must stay up for the entirety of the exhibition. 
   
   
2. While Mainframe has insurance for catastrophic incidents and 24 hour surveillance, we cannot guarantee the safety of artwork while on display. 
   
   
3. Mainframe Studios encourages artists to sell their works. Mainframe does not take any portion of any sales. If artwork is for sale, buyers will be asked to contact you, the artist, directly.
   
   
4. Mainframe operates with a community agreement that upholds respect and collaboration. We reserve the right to not display someone's work if they act unprofessionally towards the juror or staff.
   
   
5. Any works left at Mainframe without communication on pickup arrangements by September 1st, 2026 will be considered abandoned. 

Click NEXT to begin application 

Ready to Submit? 

Please click the SUBMIT button below to finalize your application. 

Please remember decisions are based on specific criteria, they do not reflect, in any way, your value or talent as an artist.

Please do not contact the juror. All questions should be directed to: 

• Libby Crimmings, Community Engagement Coordinator
  libby@mainframestudios.org