Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills, Illinois, is inviting artists aged 18 and older living within 50 miles to submit up to two pieces for its 23rd annual community art show. Submissions are accepted May 19-21, with notifications on May 26. The exhibition runs May 29 to July 30, opening with a reception and awards ceremony on May 30. This year’s juror is Lisa DeLuca, a photographer and teaching artist with experience as a recruiter for art schools and a docent at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago. She has previously juried the college’s high school exhibition and other regional shows.
This annual community exhibition matters because it provides a platform for local adult artists to gain exposure, receive feedback, and compete for cash prizes ranging from $40 to $200. By bringing in an independent juror like DeLuca, who emphasizes narrative, creativity, and openness to challenging perspectives, the show fosters professional development and community engagement in the visual arts. It also highlights the role of community colleges in nurturing regional art scenes and connecting artists with curatorial and critical dialogue.