The Exhibition Proposition
Deadline to Enter: Monday, April 21, 2025, midnight
Exhibition Dates: September 24 – November 20, 2025
Richmond Art Center is now accepting Exhibition Propositions! Artists, curators and community groups are invited to submit exhibition proposals that introduce new artists, artwork and perspectives on art. The selected applicant will receive a stipend and an exhibition in the South Gallery in fall 2025.
Guidelines:
- No fee to apply!
- Open to solo or group exhibition proposals in any media.
- Artwork should be new and not previously shown at Richmond Art Center.
- Artists/curators are responsible for artwork delivery and pickup.
Exhibition Space:
- South Gallery: Approx. 1,000 sq. ft.
Support Provided:
- $800 stipend
- Installation (preparator support), signage, and exhibition labels
- Promotional materials and marketing support
- Equipment as available (pedestals, vitrines, etc.)
- Fine art insurance while on-site
- Optional support for a public program/s
Review & Selection Process
A panel will review submissions and select finalists, who will be invited to (informal, friendly!) Proposition Pitch interviews with a small panel (2-3 people) of Bay Area arts professionals and Richmond Art Center staff. These 20-minute interviews will take place in-person on Friday, May 9 or Saturday, May 10, 2025. Final selections will be made based on panel feedback.
Important Dates:
- Deadline to Enter: Monday, April 21, 2025, midnight
- Proposition Pitches: Friday, May 9 or Saturday, May 10, 2025
- Artist Notification by: Friday, May 16, 2025
- Installation Period: Wednesday, September 10, 2025 – Saturday, September 20, 2025
- Exhibition Dates: September 24 – November 20, 2025
- Opening Reception: Saturday, September 27, 1pm-3pm
- Artwork Pick Up/Deinstall: Friday, November 21, 2025 and Saturday, November 22, 2025

Review Criteria
- Artistic Excellence – Is the work significant, distinctive, and technically strong? Does it take creative risks?
- Community Connection – Will it engage and inspire Richmond audiences? Does it reflect or respond to the experiences, histories, or concerns of the local community?
- Mutual Benefit – Will this opportunity foster collaboration, learning, or exchange? Does it support the Center’s mission while also advancing the artist’s practice or career?
Eligibility
This opportunity is open to emerging, mid-career and underrepresented Bay Area artists, curators and community groups who work in all visual art disciplines. Bilingual English/Spanish or English/Mandarin applicants, as well as applicants with a connection to Richmond, are especially encouraged to apply.