Request for Submissions

Mainframe Studios 

Request for Exhibition Proposals

About
Mainframe Studios invites artists to submit proposals for solo, duo, and small group exhibitions in our gallery spaces for 2027–2028.

We are interested in exhibitions that bring fresh perspectives to our community, explore a range of artistic practices and ideas, and engage audiences through thoughtful and creative approaches.

We seek proposals that:

• Explore a variety of topics, mediums, materials, and creative processes.
• Spark curiosity, conversation, or connection with audiences.
• Highlight the work of emerging, established, or mid-career artists.
• Offer a cohesive exhibition concept with a clear point of view.

Available exhibition spaces are located in the 2nd and 3rd floor galleries. Exhibition opportunities vary by space and schedule. The Atrium and 4th floor galleries are primarily reserved for Mainframe's primary exhibition themes.

If selected, exhibition space is provided at no cost.

Installation & Deinstallation
Artists are responsible for installing and deinstalling their exhibitions and must be available during the scheduled installation and pickup periods. Please be sure to describe any installation needs that Mainframe should be aware of when reviewing your proposal.

Submission Due Dates

Applications will be reviewed and scored by a panel of art professionals on a quarterly basis starting in 2027. Submissions are due at 11:59pm (CST) on the following dates: January 15, April 15, July 15, October 15. Artists will be notified within 30 days. 

There is no entry fee to apply.

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

Selected exhibitions will be displayed in either the second or third floor gallery spaces at Mainframe Studios.

The 2nd Floor Gallery is ideal for solo/duo shows with 58' linear feet of wall space available.

The 3rd floor is a good fit for duo or small group shows with 72' linear feet of wall space available and ample window space.   

Available Exhibition Periods

Exact dates for 2028 to be determined. 

Final exhibition dates and gallery assignments are determined by Mainframe Studios based on availability and programming needs.

Eligibility & Artwork Guidelines

1. Eligibility: Artists age 18 and older who live and/or create in Iowa are invited to apply. Proposals may be submitted by individual artists, artist duos, or small groups. All artistic disciplines are welcome.
   
   
2. Artwork Requirements: All work must be original and created by the exhibiting artist(s).
   
   Proposals should primarily feature work created within the past five years. Exceptions may be considered when older work is essential to the exhibition concept.

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 it is 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. Mainframe Studios is a shared creative community. Artists selected for exhibition are expected to communicate respectfully and professionally with Mainframe staff and follow all exhibition guidelines and deadlines. Mainframe reserves the right to cancel an exhibition if an artist does not meet these expectations.
   
   
5. Artwork must be picked up during the designated pickup period unless other arrangements have been made in advance. Artwork left at Mainframe for more than 90 days without communication from the artist will be considered abandoned.

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)
• Please upload 3-5 images of artwork that best represent the proposed exhibition. If helpful, you may also upload a proposal outline or supporting document. File types accepted: PDF, PNG, or JPEG.
• Exhibition Title and description
• Materials
• Year(s) 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.

APPLICATION REVIEW

Proposals will be reviewed quarterly by a panel of art professionals beginning in 2027. Reviewers will consider:

• Strength and clarity of the proposed exhibition concept
• Quality and relevance of the submitted work samples
• Cohesion between the proposed exhibition and the artist's submitted work
• Feasibility of the proposal within Mainframe's available gallery spaces
• Potential to engage Mainframe's community and audiences

Selections are based on the quality and fit of each proposal, available gallery space, and Mainframe's exhibition programming needs.

If you have questions please reach out to Libby Crimmings, Community Engagement Coordinator at: Libby@mainframestudios.org.   

Click NEXT to begin application 

Ready to Submit? 

Please click the SUBMIT button below to finalize your application. 

We review proposals based on the criteria above, available gallery space, exhibition scheduling, and current programming needs. Submission does not guarantee an exhibition invitation.

All questions should be directed to: 

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