YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The Butler Institute of American Art is seeking entries for its National Midyear Juried Exhibition. The deadline is April 17.
The Midyear – now in its 89th year – is one of the nation’s longest-running and most respected exhibitions for contemporary American artists. It is open to artists age 18 older who live in the United States and its territories.
The exhibition is accepting submissions of 2D and relief artworks that reflect the diversity, creativity and innovation of American visual art. Entries are to be submitted online at ButlerArt.com. Complete guidelines and submission information can be found at the site.
The selected works will be displayed July 12-Aug. 20. The opening reception July 12 will include the awards presentation at 2 p.m.
Serving as this year’s juror is Louis A. Zona, director emeritus of The Butler Institute of American Art. Zona led the museum for more than four decades as executive director and chief curator, overseeing significant growth in its collections, exhibitions and national reputation. Widely respected as a curator, scholar and educator, he brings decades of expertise and a deep commitment to American art.
The National Midyear Exhibition has showcased the work of thousands of artists from across the country. Traditionally centered on 2D artwork – including painting, works on paper and photography – the exhibition has recently expanded to include sculptural relief, provided the works are wall-mounted and meet the exhibition’s guidelines.
The jurying and award process is overseen by The Butler’s Midyear committee, composed of museum staff and board members, ensuring a fair, transparent and ethical selection process.
In recent years, The Butler introduced an alternating cycle between the National Midyear Juried Exhibition and the Midyear Prize Exhibition, which awards a future solo exhibition to one selected artist. Past Midyear Prize recipients include acclaimed artists John Jude Palencar and Autumn Joi Ellis.
For 2026, The Butler will also revive the tradition of featuring invited artists, with the Midyear committee selecting up to five professional contemporary artists to exhibit alongside the juried selections.
The National Midyear Exhibition provides national visibility and professional recognition for artists while supporting The Butler’s mission to celebrate and cultivate excellence in American art.