It is the policy and practice of the Wisconsin Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired, as part of its educational mission, to provide space for statewide residents to display works of art. Through the display of artwork, the Council recognizes and supports the creative spirit of individuals who are blind and visually impaired.
The Council will make a certain amount of space available on an ongoing basis for the display of artwork by blind or visually impaired artists. All individuals or groups interested in displaying artwork should review the “Artist application procedures” and “Art exhibit guidelines” below and complete the required forms.
Artist application procedures
The Outreach & Development Manager or designee will accept all applications. Artist application forms are available online or may be requested by email or phone. Please complete and return the application by mail to: WI Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired, Outreach & Development Manager, 754 Williamson Street, Madison, WI 53703-3546, or deliver in person to the receptionist desk. You will be contacted to confirm the date and time your work is to be submitted.
Please be prepared to bring:
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2-3 samples of your artwork
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A short biography related to your art training.
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Photographs of previous artwork shows, if applicable.
If approved, you will:
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Be notified of the exhibit date availability.
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Be required to sign and submit the Art exhibit registration and agreement forms.
Art exhibit guidelines
Exhibiting at the WI Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired—
The Council welcomes the opportunity to display works of art from statewide residents. The Outreach & Development Manager will accept applications from exhibitors on a first-come-first-served basis. The Manager or designee shall use her/his discretion to decide on the suitability of any art, its framing or support structure, and any visual or written material that might accompany an exhibit. The Council will consider a wide range of artistic expression in deciding on potential exhibitors.
Physical limits—
Once an artist has been approved, the Outreach & Development Manager will schedule dates for both hanging and taking down of artwork with the artist. The area available for art exhibitions is limited to the first and second floor walls and in the large conference room (second floor). All artwork must be of a size and weight able to be supported by hanging mechanisms. Floor space must be kept clear.
Hanging—
Hanging and dismantling of the exhibit is the responsibility of the artist. All materials for hanging (level, measuring tape, frames, etc.) are to be supplied by the artist. Pictures are to be wired and framed for hanging. It is the responsibility of the artist to label his or her own artwork.
Artist profile and price list—
The artist submits a statement, two to three paragraphs in length (maximum) describing his/her artwork and any details that would be valuable for blind and visually impaired individuals to know.
A price list, prepared by the artist, should include the title of each work, its size and price. The artist and Outreach & Development Manager will discuss and determine the commission amount the Council will take on pieces sold.
Publicity—
The Wisconsin Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired will make reasonable efforts to promote the artist’s work through news releases sent to local media outlets, flyers designed for internal and external distribution, and announcements and invitations produced and sent to select Council mailing lists. The featured artist may do other promotional strategies at his/her own expense.
Opening reception—
The artist may plan a formal opening or reception after checking available dates and booking the large conference room with the Outreach & Development Manager. The Council will provide punch and cookies or wine and cheese for up to 50 guests. An exception to this is when the Council hosts its annual Community Open House and artist reception, when attendance may be larger.
Kitchen facilities, including the sink, microwave and coffee makers, are available for your use. We ask that you be respectful of Council property and return the large conference room and kitchen facilities to a clean condition.
Once you have received confirmation that the date and time have been approved, the Outreach & Development Manager will provide you with the specified room arrangement and offer suggestions to guide you on your reception.
Invitations for the opening reception event are the responsibility of the artist. We suggest that you mail approximately 100 post cards announcing the event to friends, family members and civic groups or organizations to which you belong at least 2-3 weeks before the opening reception.
You may also create flyers promoting your opening reception and exhibit to distribute to local businesses/organizations or to post on local bulletin boards.
Insurance—
Insurance against theft, fire and any damages in excess to normal handling will be provided by the WI Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired, as outlined on the Art exhibition protection memorandum, provided this form is completed and returned to the Council offices at least one week prior to the opening of your art exhibit.
Artwork can only be insured while in the physical possession of the Council. You are responsible for all liability coverage during transportation of your art to/from the Council. Council offices are monitored by a security system. All artwork must be secured to our risk management standards in order to be covered by the Council’s insurance.
Taking down your exhibit—
Please arrange artwork delivery and pickup dates and times with the Outreach & Development Manager. Artwork must be removed by the artist within two days of the exhibition closing, or unless otherwise specified.
Thank you for your interest in exhibiting at the WI Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired!
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