The Morgan Conservatory is seeking artworks to be displayed in conjunction with our upcoming Dress to IMPRESS Paper Fashion Show & Fundraiser on Saturday, October 3rd from 6-10 p.m. The Gallery is looking for wall art that explores dystopian themes and possible futures through various mediums.
Due to the number of people and activity during the Dress to Impress Runway Show, the Morgan Conservatory will only accept two-dimensional and low relief works that can be displayed on the wall. We cannot accept sculptures that require pedestals. If you have any questions regarding the eligibility of your work, please contact Celeste Stauber, Gallery Manager, at gallery@morganconservatory.org.
Theme:
Brave New Worlds is a hyper-stylish and fashion-forward era that embraces multiple and new realities. The world of fashion has consistently served as a mirror to society, reflecting current moods, social movements, and cultural paradigms. In Brave New Worlds, dystopian fashions will express concerns for the future and societal turbulence with a “new possible” stepping forth.
At once futuristic and somehow timeless, artists are invited to explore dystopian themes and possible futures through paper fashion and wearable art – whether it’s dark and avant-garde designs combining draped silhouettes with rough materials, evoking a post-apocalyptic aesthetic, a deconstructed uniform that is both rugged and futuristic, playing with volume, shape, and structure to craft a visionary interpretation of fashion or a typically minimalist and futuristic aesthetic.
Qualifications:
All submitted work must be original and completed within the past five years.
Preference will be given to work that consists of 50% paper. (Work is not limited to handmade paper. Can include: photography, printmaking, drawing, painting, etc.)
Dimensions must not exceed 60 inches in any direction.
Each artist is welcome to submit up to 3 entries.
Artists are responsible for shipping costs/transporting their artwork to the gallery
Artwork must be framed (if media applicable) and ready to hang, or come with alternative installation directions.
Works must be for sale. The Morgan Conservatory retains 40% commission on all works sold. Artists have the option to donate 100% of sales proceeds to the Morgan Conservatory.
Accepted artists will receive a complimentary ticket to the fundraiser (Saturday October 3rd)
Exhibition dates: September 23rd - October 24th, 2026
Important Dates:
Submission Due: Saturday, August 22nd at 11:59pm EST
Notification of Acceptance: Saturday, August 29th
Artwork Drop Off:
Tuesday, September 8th 1-4 p.m.
Wednesday, September 9th through Saturday, September 12th 10 a.m.-4 p.m .
Exhibition on View: September 23rd- October 24th
Dress to Impress Fashion Show & Fundraiser: Saturday, October 3rd 6-10 p.m.