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Art Connects Community
What’s your vision for a world where we all thrive?
Sustainable Stillwater MN invites you to share your creative response to this question through artwork. Inspired by Lady Bird Johnson’s words:
"The environment is where we all meet; where we all have a mutual interest; it is the one thing all of us share. It is not only a mirror of ourselves, but a focusing lens on what we can become."
We want to see how you interpret this idea of community and environmental connection, and we’re excited to share your vision with the world.
About the Initiative
Who’s Eligible?
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Youth & Adults: All ages welcome!
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Where: Must live within a 15-mile radius of the Stillwater Lift Bridge (St. Croix Valley area).
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Artists: Whether you’re an amateur or professional, we encourage everyone to participate!
What Can You Create?
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2D Media: Paintings, photography, pencil, pastels, fiber art, digitally created art, etc.
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Must be 16” x 24” or smaller, ready to hang, ideally framed with hanging hardware.
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3D Media: Sculptures, metalwork.
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Must fit in a 2 x 2 x 2 feet space.
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Please Note:
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Film, audio, video, or AI-generated works will not be accepted.
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This is a family-friendly event, so please no nudity.
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Artwork must have been created within the last year.
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Limit of one entry per person across all categories.
Enter to Win Amazing Prizes!
While technical skill is important, creativity and how you interpret the theme are what matter most to us. By submitting your art, you can win several exciting prizes!
Key Dates to Remember
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May 31, 2025 - Registration Deadline: Free entry! One submission per person. Register here!
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Beginning of July 2025: Artwork drop-off for judging.
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Mid-July 2025: Jury panel reviews artwork for creativity, originality, and best interpretation of the theme.
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July 31, 2025: Winners announced.
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August-September 2025: Selected artworks will be showcased in Stillwater and online on Sustainable Stillwater MN’s website and social media.
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October 30, 2025: Silent auction at SSMN’s Fall Gala (auction proceeds benefit SSMN’s mission!).
FAQs
Can I submit more than one piece of artwork?
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Only one submission per person.
Can I submit artwork for exhibit only, without entering the contest?
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Yes! You can choose whether or not to enter the contest. We’d love to showcase your art either way!
Do I have to donate my artwork for the silent auction?
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No, that’s entirely up to you. You can decide when you drop off your art, and you can change your mind later if you wish!
Will my artwork be returned?
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Art exhibited digitally will be available for pickup in early August. Art displayed in Stillwater locations must be picked up by mid-October. Art donated to the silent auction will be returned in early November if not sold.
Can I sell my artwork during the exhibit?
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If you’d like, you can sell your art during the silent auction, but it should not be listed for sale during the exhibit. You may provide contact information for those interested after the event.
Join the Movement: Art Connects Communities!
We are thrilled to bring our community together through this exciting event. Submit your artwork, showcase your vision, and help us build a more sustainable and resilient future through art.
For any questions, contact Sirid Kellermann at sirid@sustainablestillwatermn.org or (650) 996-9927.
