Art Comes Alive 2025

About the Open Call

For over 30 years, it's been ADC's mission to support living artists, and ACA (Art Comes Alive) does just that. Now entering its 16th year, ACA has earned its reputation as the “Academy Awards for Art,” and it’s only getting bigger. Held inside our stunning 13,000 sq. ft. gallery in Cincinnati’s vibrant Over-the-Rhine district, an artistic hub bursting with creativity, ACA is a career-making opportunity for contemporary artists. This one-of-a-kind event connects artists with the people who can elevate their careers: interior designers, gallery owners, private collectors, corporate art buyers, and more. Each year, ACA grows in size, prestige, and influence—and this year promises to be the biggest yet, featuring: Over $450,000 in awards, Exciting new jurors from across the art world, More exposure, more opportunities, and more ways to get your work seen and sold. If you’re ready to take your art career to the next level, ACA 2025 is your moment. Apply now—and be part of something extraordinary. Important Dates: August 8: Applications open, October 3: Applications close, October 6: Jurying begins, October 13: Results announced, October 31: Art must arrive at the gallery, November 14: Opening night & awards ceremony. All sizes, mediums, and subjects are welcome: Paintings, Drawings, Mixed Media, Abstract, Realism, Sculpture, Glass, Metal, Installation, Conceptual Works. Artists must be over the age of 18 to participate. All artwork must be available for sale. This is an in-person exhibition. All art applied must be available for the exhibition from November 14, 2025 - January 14, 2026. All art must be available for sale. If art is not available/ not for sale, you will be disqualified. Please apply with the retail price of each piece. You must be over the age of 18 to apply. If you are under the age of 18, you will be disqualified.

What is Offered

Over $450,000 in awards, enhanced exposure, opportunities for art sales, and connections with interior designers, gallery owners, private collectors, and corporate art buyers.

Requirements

All sizes, mediums, and subjects are welcome, including Paintings, Drawings, Mixed Media, Abstract, Realism, Sculpture, Glass, Metal, Installation, and Conceptual Works. Artists must be over 18 years of age. All artwork must be available for sale and for the in-person exhibition from November 14, 2025 - January 14, 2026.

How to Apply

Apply through the Call for Entry platform at the provided URL. Applications open August 8 and close October 3, 2025. All artwork must be available for sale and artists must be over 18 years of age.