Call for Artwork: Time and Tide Exhibition at the Petaluma Museum

• Time and Tide: An Artful Exploration of Petaluma’s Wetlands
• Exhibition Dates: April 9 – June 7, 2026
• Location: Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 20 4th St, Petaluma, CA

Artists have long been inspired by nature—but can art also help protect nature?

Time and Tide: An Artful Exploration of Petaluma’s Wetlands is a juried exhibition organized by the Petaluma Museum, bringing together art, science, and history to explore the ecological, cultural, and historical significance of the Petaluma River watershed. Developed in partnership with the Petaluma Wetlands Alliance and other community collaborators, the exhibition highlights wetlands’ roles in biodiversity, climate resilience, and in creating a sustainable future.

Through interpretive panels, original artworks, and public programs, Time and Tide aims to inspire stewardship and community action to protect these vital landscapes.

Who May Apply

• Open to Bay Area artists ages 18+
• All experience levels welcome

Exhibition Themes
Artists must select one thematic section for each submission (jury may reassign):

• Origins: The Ancient Wetlands – Natural history, ecology, biodiversity
• People of the Tides: Indigenous stewardship and knowledge (Indigenous artists are encouraged to submit work in this and all categories)
• Transformation: Settlement and Change – Altered landscapes and impacts
• Renewal: Restoration and Resilience – Recovery, hope, community action
• Interconnections: Wetlands & Sustainable Agriculture – Water, soil, food systems
• Future Horizons: Stewardship & Climate Action – Visionary responses to climate change 

 

Accepted Media

• Two-dimensional original artworks only

• Painting, drawing, photography, prints, mixed media, or written word (poetry or prose)

• Low relief allowed (≤ 5 inches deep)

• Written word submissions must fit on one 8.5 x 11 inch page

• No sculpture, suspended, or free-standing works

• No AI-generated art

• Reproductions (e.g., giclée of original) not accepted

• Family-friendly content required

 

Size & Presentation Requirements

• Min: 8” x 10” | Max: 24” x 36”
• Max weight: 25 lbs
• Ready-to-hang with D-rings and wire (no sawtooth hangers)

 

Submission Details

• Maximum 3 submissions per artist (submit separate forms for each)
• Submissions Open: January 6, 2026
• Deadline: February 15, 2026 (11:59 PM)
• Notification: February 28, 2026

 

Key Dates

• Artwork Drop-Off: March 27 (11–1) or March 28 (11–2), 2026
• Opening Reception: April 9, 2026 | 5–7 PM 
• Artwork Pick-Up: June 8 or 9, 2026 (10–2) 

 

Sales & Commission

• Artwork may be for sale or loan
• 70% artist/30% Museum consignment
• Sales will be handled by the Museum
• Loan documents and artist consignment agreements will be provided by the Museum

 

How to Apply

• Submit digitally via this form
• Upload one image per submission
• Include:
  • Artwork title, medium, size, price
  • Short bio 
  • Short artist statement 
  • Your contact information

Rights & Display

• Accepted work must remain on view for full exhibition
• Museum may use images for publicity
• All accepted works may appear online via the Museum's website and/or social media