Call to Artists
About the Event
DARTS invites artists to participate in P(art)y It Forward – a one-night only exhibit and fundraising auction celebrating the Art of Aging. This event merges creativity with community impact, offering artists an opportunity to share their vision while supporting healthy aging solutions for older adults and caregivers in the Twin Cities Southeast Metro.
We believe art has the power to spark conversations, connect generations, and illuminate the vibrant, diverse experiences of growing older. When creating or submitting your piece(s), consider:
- What does celebrating the beauty of healthy aging in our vibrant, diverse communities mean to you?
- What emotions, colors, textures, or images come to mind?
- How does your work reflect the art of life itself?
Let your creativity flourish and be part of a project that honors the stories, wisdom, and journeys of aging.
ARTWORK SUBMISSION DETAILS
- Send all submissions to marketing@darts1.org
- Submit up to three artworks and include one image of each in JPEG format to be attached to the email.
- Fill out and attach the application to your email. The information on the application includes:
- Contact information (name, address, phone, email)
- Title
- Medium
- Dimensions
- Retail Price
- For each submission, please submit a brief description of your artwork and how it connects to the exhibition theme. This will be included in the application document.
Key Dates
| May 5, 2025 | Call to Artists Opens |
| August 4, 2025 | Submission Deadline |
| August 11, 2025 | Notification of Acceptance |
| September 25, 2025 | Artwork drop-off and exhibit at the Confluence Hotel in Hastings |
- Select artists may be invited to participate in a meet-and-greet session at the event
- Alternate drop-off options available if needed
Artwork Donations
All accepted artworks will be donated to DARTS for the P(art)y It Forward fundraising auction. Artists will receive an in-kind donation receipt for the full retail value of their donated work.
Proceeds from the sale of all artwork will directly support programs that help older adults and caregivers thrive in our vibrant, diverse communities.
Delivery Notes
To ensure the safety and proper handling of all artwork, artists are encouraged to deliver their accepted pieces directly to the Confluence Hotel on September 25. However, we understand transportation or timing may be a barrier for some.
If you’re unable to deliver on that day, please contact us in advance to explore alternative arrangements, such as:
- Early drop-off at the DARTS office in West St. Paul
- Coordinating drop-off with another artist or volunteer
- Delivery by courier or mail
We are unable to guarantee the safe transport of especially large or fragile items until delivered directly by the artist or their designee. Please let us know your needs as early as possible so we can work with you to find a solution.
For More Information
For more information, please review the FAQ below or by downloading the PDF version here.
Thank you for your generosity! Your creative voice – and your donation – will help us continue to build a community where all people age well.
We’re excited to see your artwork!
FAQs
Eligibility & Submission Guidelines
It’s DARTS’ annual fall fundraiser – this year featuring a one-night-only art exhibit and auction. The event celebrates healthy aging in our vibrant, diverse communities and raises funds for programs supporting older adults and caregivers in the Twin Cities Southeast Metro.
Artists of all ages and experience levels are welcome to apply. If the artist is under 18, a parent or guardian must submit the entry on their behalf.
We encourage submissions from both professional and amateur artists. Whether you’re emerging, established, self-taught, or creating for joy – if your artwork reflects the theme, we’d love to see it.
We welcome all visual mediums – painting, drawing, mixed media, sculpture, fiber, photography, and more. Submitted works should reflect or respond to the them of healthy aging and community.
Artists may submit up to three original pieces for consideration.
Email your entry by August 4 to marketing@darts1.org. Include:
- One image per piece (high resolution preferred)
- Your application, including your contact info (name, email, phone), and the title, medium, dimensions, and retail value for each piece
- A short description of how each piece connects to the theme (included in application)
Selection Process
A small art selection committee will review all submissions. Our primary focus is how well each piece connects to the event theme: celebrating the beauty of healthy aging in our vibrant, diverse communities.
DARTS is committed to creating an inclusive and respectful environment for all. In line with our values, we aim to showcase a broad range of perspectives and artistic expressions. To maintain a welcoming atmosphere, we reserve the right to decline submissions with obscene or overtly controversial content.
Your unique interpretations will contribute to a rich and meaningful exhibition.
Artists will be notified by August 11.
Artist Recognition
We value and celebrate every artist who contributes to P(art)y It Forward. Participating artists can expect:
- Name and artwork title displayed at the exhibition alongside your piece
- Social media call-outs on DARTS’ platforms leading up to the event
- The option to be featured in event marketing materials and/or on the DARTS website
- A chance to be included in the invitation-only artist meet-and-greet on event night
- A thank-you note after the event with photos, updates on funds raised, and recognition for your generosity
If you have a business name or handle you’d like tagged in posts, be sure to include that on your application!
Event Participation & Artwork Delivery
Accepted artists are asked to deliver their artwork to the Confluence Hotel in Hastings on September 25. If you are unable to deliver in person due to transportation or scheduling conflicts, please reach out. We’re happy to work with you on alternate options, such as dropping off your piece(s) at the DARTS office in West St. Paul beforehand. We may not be able to safely transport very large or fragile works, so early communication is appreciated.
No, attendance is not required; however, a small number of artists will be invited to participate in a casual meet-and-greet with event guests. If selected, you’ll be contacted in advance. Otherwise, there’s no expectation to hold your evening open.
Auction & Artwork Donation
Yes. All donated artwork will be sold in our fundraising auction. DARTS will handle all sales.
Artists will not receive a percentage of sale. Instead, you’ll receive an in-kind donation receipt for the full retail value of your donated piece. This donation is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
This event supports DARTS’ mission to help older adults and caregivers thrive. Donating your artwork simplifies the auction process and maximizes the impact of your creativity, turning your art into direct support for your community.
Still have questions?
We’re here to help! Reach out to us at marketing@darts1.org with any questions about the submission process or event details.
