Transformed

About the Open Call

Transformed is a thought-provoking art exhibition that explores the beauty and potential of repurposed materials, showcasing the ingenuity of artists who breathe new life into the discarded and forgotten. Through a series of sculptural works, installations, and mixed media pieces, this exhibition invites visitors to reconsider the objects that surround us, things we often overlook or cast aside and reframe them as sources of inspiration, narrative, and artistic expression. From industrial scraps to everyday household items, each artwork in Transformed is a testament to the idea that art doesn’t always come from new materials, but from reimagining what already exists. The exhibition features works that take seemingly mundane, used, and unwanted objects, such as old tools, broken electronics, recycled fabrics, and even trash, and repurpose them into stunning, thought-provoking compositions. Each piece in the show highlights the power of creativity to not only alter the physical form of these materials but to also shift their cultural and emotional significance. In Transformed, the artists challenge us to think about sustainability, consumption, and waste in a world increasingly aware of its environmental footprint. The works in this exhibition reflect a commitment to the belief that through art, something as simple as a discarded object can tell a new, rich story, providing insight into the connections we have with the objects we use and the lives they have lived before finding their way into the artist’s hands. This exhibition is a celebration of resourcefulness, creativity, and the ever-present potential for renewal in our fast-paced, throwaway culture. As you walk through the gallery, you’ll discover how objects once considered obsolete or meaningless can be transformed into pieces of art that speak to our collective past, present, and future. All original 2D or 3D work following entry guidelines will be considered. Works selected by the juror will be exhibited in MFA’s Circle Gallery from October 31 – November 22, 2025. The juror is Jaynie Crimmins, a New York City-based paper sculptor and artist.

What is Offered

Awards designated by the juror total $1,000. Artists will retain 70% from sales (75% for MFA Members).

Requirements

All original 2D or 3D work following entry guidelines will be considered. Work must arrive at MFA Circle Gallery between October 21–25, 2025, from 11 AM–4 PM. Paintings must be dry and work must meet size limitations, including outer edges of frames. All shipped work must include a bar-coded shipping label and be sent via UPS or FedEx (no USPS; no shipping peanuts). Packing/repacking instructions must be affixed to the OUTSIDE of the shipping box. Work may not be removed from the exhibition early. Artists may pick up hand-delivered work on November 23–24, 2025, from 11 AM–4 PM, or at 6 PM after the Closing Reception. Work left in storage after announced pickup dates will be subject to a fine of $10 per piece, per week, and may become MFA property after two weeks. All work is handled with care, but pieces are submitted at the artist’s risk; MFA is not liable for damage or theft. All work entered must be for sale, marked with a price or POR. Notification to all entrants will be by email on October 2, 2025, at 5 PM; accepted artists will also be posted on MFA’s website. Artists who have unsubscribed from MFA emails will not receive notification. Please set email accounts to recognize amani@mdfedart.org and info@mdfedart.org.

How to Apply

Applicants should view and print the downloadable prospectus available on the website by clicking the provided icon. All original 2D or 3D work following entry guidelines will be considered. The entry deadline is September 3, 2025, at 11:59 PM.