AVA’s Curator is accepting proposals from AVA Member Artists for a small group exhibition in our Main Gallery for the first exhibit slot for the 2026 calendar year. This does not include the stage. 

Proposals due by Sunday, September 7th 2025 at Midnight.

Exhibit Dates: January 9th-February 20th, 2026

The proposal is for a GROUP exhibit and not for a solo show. The proposal should include a minimum of four visual artists. The proposal can be thematic, explore particular media or subject matters, reflective of a community or shared interest group, etc. but each proposal should address and align with AVA’s mission and vision in some way:

The Association for Visual Arts’ mission is to strengthen and promote the artistic ecosystem of Chattanooga’s visual artists, art enthusiasts and arts-based institutions. 

We envision and strive towards a healthy and thriving arts community, evidenced by an ever-increasing engagement of artists and appreciation of the visual arts throughout the greater Chattanooga community.

Proposals will be evaluated on their ability to address AVA’s Mission and Vision, the thoroughness and quality of the content of the proposal and organization. The proposal will also require a public program of some kind that will take place during the exhibit’s duration. The program can be an artist talk, performance, demonstration, activity, lecture, etc but whatever the event is should tie directly to and activate the exhibit to the public. 

Call for Proposal for Window/Stage Display Installation

AVA is looking for proposals for installation works to activate our stage and storefront window. Ideal installation proposals would be on display in conjunction with our exhibit calendar for a seven week duration. Install would take place during exhibit rotation weeks.

The open space for installation includes an area on the stage directly in front of the two large storefront windows. 

Available area stage measurements: 60” deep, 156” wide and 84” tall. 

Window panels: 68” by 73” 

There are four power outlets available, two on the wall on either side of the window and two floor mounted outlets at both ends. There are two lighting tracks that cross the stage. Installations may not interfere with the lighting.

There are two ceiling mounted hanging racks made of pipe that are centered with each large window. Lightweight items can be hung with wire, fishing line, etc. There are also three sets of cables that hang six feet above the stage on the side closest to the gallery which can be used for textiles, banners or anything that utilizes a dowel for suspension.

Installation proposals do not need to coordinate or match with exhibits in the gallery. This is being conceived of as a separate exhibition opportunity. The stage will not be available for installations during our annual Annual Juried Show, the Solo Show or the Annual Member Salon Show. 
Artists will be responsible for install and take down, as well as all needed components and hardware. Install and take down must take place during exhibit rotation weeks and will be coordinated with the AVA Curator. A short contract will be drafted for each install, just as with exhibits. If a proposal is selected and installed, the artist(s) responsible are required to attend the exhibit opening. 

Art installations and displays may not include any element that permanently alters or damages the stage, window or any AVA property. Any materials applied to the window should be approved by the AVA Curator but can include window chalk, markers, acrylic paint and tape with minimal adhesive. Artists are responsible for removing any remaining residue on the glass. 
The stage is accessible via a false wall door to the right and a short staircase leading up to the platform from the gallery floor. 
We are taking proposals for the first exhibits for 2026, January-mid-February and mid February through early April.

Non-Discrimination Policy

No person will be excluded from participation or otherwise subjected to discrimination in regards to services, programs, and employment provided by the Association for Visual Arts based on color, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender, age, or religion.