Submissions

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Open to novice and professional artists, Master Naturalists, and all interested artists. 

• Subject/Content:
  • Must be original art by submitter, created in 2024 or later
  • No AI-generated works
  • Must fit one of the three stated categories focusing on Wisconsin’s natural world of landscape, life, and learning
• Submissions Due: February 28, 2026
• Number: One piece per category per artist
• Media: All original visual art (except photography and creative writing)
• Size: No larger than 6″ x 6″ x 6″ (Width x Height x Depth)
• Presentation: Professionally finished and ready for display
  • 2D art: finished edges or framed, with wire hangers (no sawtooth)
  • 3D art: self-supported or include a stand
• Labeling: Artist name & artwork title on back, bottom, or with a removable tag.
• Submission Photos: 1 clear image per category, JPEG or JPG, under 5MB, with a minimum of 1200 pixels on the longest side 
• Artist Statement: (100 words maximum)
  • Share inspiration behind the artwork and their own connection to nature.
  • We reserve the right to edit statements for space and clarity.
• Weblinks: Links to artist websites or social media, if any, can be included and may be added to the online auction site based on space availability. 
• Delivery: All accepted art must be mailed or dropped off during the designated times (provided upon acceptance), by April 20 at the artist’s own expense.
• Entry fee: $0, no fee required

ART SELECTION

Art inclusion: Wisconsin Master Naturalist program will accept art based on available space, consistency with the theme and guidelines, and quality of work. If, upon receipt, art does not meet the size requirements or has been altered from the original submitted photograph, it will not be included in the auction nor eligible for the gallery shows or awards. Selected art will be included in the online auction with highest judged art pieces shown in the galleries. 

Donation: All art will be considered a donation and will not be returned. All online auction proceeds will go to the UW Foundation to benefit the Wisconsin Master Naturalist program. 

Right to Use: By submitting an entry, artist grants permission to the use of the artwork, or images/videos of the artwork, for non-commercial educational or promotional purposes for the Wisconsin Master Naturalist program, UW-Madison Extension with attribution to the artist. For example, images may be shown in displays, publications, webpages, presentations, videos or on social media.