Description

Purpose of the Exhibit
Rococo, an artistic movement from the early 18th century, was known for its elaborate ornamentation, flowing forms, and playful sensuality. Echoes of Opulence aims to reconsider these themes in the context of today’s world. We invite artists working across all mediums—painting, sculpture, photography, emerging media, mixed media, and more—to explore the intersection of traditional Rococo aesthetics with contemporary ideas.

In a world where many of us are perpetually bombarded with screen based visual content, self expression through art can feel lost. This exhibit seeks to give artists a platform to showcase bold, intricate designs, exaggerated elegance, and a spirit of rebellion against control. We welcome your unique take on this sumptuous aesthetic in response to contemporary life.

Important Dates
June 1, 2025: High-quality images of the artwork must be submitted for jury review and promotional materials.

August 27, 2025: Accepted work must be delivered in-person to Gallery 202

September 12-October 11 2025: Exhibition dates

1. Eligibility

Open to artists of all ages and experience levels.
Collaborative works are welcome.
Must have the means to deliver works in person to Gallery 202.
All works must be original and created by the submitting artist.
2. Artwork Specifications

Each artist may submit up to 3 works.
Artwork dimensions must not exceed 60"x60"x60” unless prior approval is obtained (contact gallery202cle@gmail.com).
Media accepted: painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking, photography, emerging media, and mixed media.
3. Digital Image Requirements

Images must be submitted in JPEG format.
Minimum resolution: 300 DPI.
File naming convention: LastName_FirstName_Title.jpg.
Upload images via google form.
4. Submission Form

Complete the submission form by the deadline, including:
Artist’s full name, contact information, and personal email addresses.
Title, medium, dimensions, and year of completion for each work.
A brief artist statement (100–200 words). (Optional)
5. Artwork Delivery/Pickup

Works must be delivered to Gallery 202 in 78th Street Studios by August 27 2025
Ensure all pieces are properly framed or display-ready.
The exhibit runs from September 12 to October 11 2025
6. Selection Process

Echoes of Opulence is a student-lead show, and will be curated by Cleveland Institute of Art Junior Izzy Thomas*
Artists will be notified of acceptance by the first week of August.

Additional Notes
Gallery 202 reserves the right to photograph and publish images of the works for promotional purposes.

Questions? Contact gallery202cle@gmail.com for assistance.

*Izzy Thomas is a Columbus, OH based artist who specializes in drawing. Her work combines modern day consumer culture and Rococo themes. Thomas is pursuing her BFA in Drawing at the Cleveland Institute of Art. Her work has been exhibited in the Norman Roulet Student + Alumni Gallery, Pinwheel Gallery, and the Reinberger Gallery in Cleveland, Ohio as well as Brecksville, Ohio in the Feverdream Curation Program. Her honors include the Joseph and Algesa O’Sickey Scholarship and three Gold Keys and one Silver Key from Scholastics Art and Writing Izzy is active in the Cleveland Institute of Art’s student-run publication, OrangePress, where she has published essays and is the magazine’s Director of Creative Writing. She currently resides in Cleveland, Ohio.

Izzy Thomas organized this project as part of the Cleveland Institute of Art Creativity Works program,
supported by the Fenn Educational Fund and the G.R. Lincoln Family Foundation.