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 exhibition is juried by Jaynie Crimmins, a New York City based paper sculptor and artist known for creating alternative narratives by recycling quotidian materials. Her work has been shown internationally and in numerous museums across the United States. Crimmins has a background in community work, including volunteering at the Guggenheim Museum and with asylum seekers. Exhibition Schedule: Entry Deadline is September 3, 2025, at 11:59 PM. Notification of acceptance will be made on October 2, 2025, at 5 PM. Accepted and Shipped Work must arrive at MFA Circle Gallery between October 21-25, 2025, from 11 AM – 4 PM. The Exhibition Opens on October 31, 2025. A Virtual Awards Ceremony will be held on November 2, 2025, from 4 – 5 PM via Zoom. The Last Day of the Exhibition is November 22, 2025, with a Closing Reception at MFA Circle Gallery from 4 – 6 PM. Pick-up for Hand-Delivered Work is November 23-24, 2025, from 11 AM – 4 PM. Shipped Work will be sent on December 4, 2025. Note: Should Circle Gallery be closed, MFA reserves the right to move a planned physical exhibit to its online gallery. Delivery instructions: All work delivered to the gallery must have the artist’s name, address, phone number, email, title, medium (specific descriptions requested), and price affixed to the non-viewing side. Work must arrive on scheduled dates and paintings must be dry. Work must meet size limitations. Shipped work requires a bar-coded shipping label (UPS or FedEx preferred, no USPS) and no shipping peanuts, with packing/repacking instructions affixed to the outside of the box. Pickup and Storage: Work may not be removed early. A fine of $10 per piece, per week applies for work left in storage beyond two weeks after announced pickup dates, after which it may become MFA property. Liability: All work is handled with care but submitted at the artist’s risk; MFA is not liable for damage or theft. Artists should carry their own insurance if desired. Sales: All work must be for sale (unless prior agreement) and marked with a price or POR. Artists retain 70% from sales (75% for MFA Members); MFA retains 30% commission (25% for MFA Members). MFA handles sales tax. Sold artwork requiring shipment will be handled by MFA with costs collected from the buyer. Buyers will be asked if work can be retained until the exhibit ends. MFA asks artists to donate 20% from any sale made through a direct referral from MFA within three months.

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. Works must adhere to size limitations, arrive on scheduled dates, and be ready for display (e.g., paintings dry). Shipped work requires a bar-coded shipping label (UPS or FedEx preferred, no USPS or shipping peanuts), and packing/repacking instructions affixed to the outside of the box. All entered work must be for sale unless prior arrangements are made.

How to Apply

Applicants should refer to the downloadable prospectus linked on the page for complete entry guidelines and application instructions. The entry deadline is September 3, 2025, at 11:59 PM.