Open Call for Artists
Putnam History Museum Announces Open Call for Artists: Revolutionary Visions
Cold Spring, NY – The Putnam History Museum, with grant support from the Putnam Arts Council and in collaboration with the Southeast Museum, invites artists to contribute to a new exhibition titled “Revolutionary Visions: Women of the Hudson Highlands during the American Revolution.”
“Revolutionary Visions” aims to merge art with regional history by commissioning local artists to create works that breathe new life into the historical narratives of women from different social classes, races, and allegiances during the American Revolutionary War. This exhibition will pair new artworks with historical maps, sketches, paintings, prints, and written interpretations to offer visitors a deeper understanding of women’s roles and the Hudson Valley’s significance during the American Revolution.
The exhibition, set to open October/November 2024, offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the reimagining of our shared history through the lens of art, highlighting the influential roles women played during the American Revolution. The exhibition will be on view at the Putnam History Museum in Cold Spring and then the Southeast Museum in Brewster.
Artists’ Selection Process
The PHM & SM are seeking to commission 3-5 artists to produce works that interpret the stories of these women through a contemporary lens. Artists will be assigned a specific woman and story to inspire their work, accompanied by a small packet of historical material for further inspiration. We welcome a variety of interpretations, including, but not limited to portraits, landscapes, buildings, sketches, interpretive pieces, paintings, textiles, pottery, and more.
Submit Interest Email
Deadline for Submission: May 15, 2024
Submission Requirements: Interested artists should submit their name, resume or CV, and 2-3 sentences expressing their interest in the project. Please include a link to your portfolio, website, or social media pages (or, please attach 3-4 examples of your previous works).
Email to: director@putnamhistorymuseum.org with subject line: Revolutionary Visions
Selection and Commission
Notification Date: June 1, 2024
Commission: $600 (Half upon MOU completion, half upon work submission)
Rights: Artworks will join the PHM archival collection for educational purposes. Commercial rights remain with the artist, unless otherwise negotiated.
Project Timeline
June 1, 2024: Artist Selection and MOU Establishment
June 1 – October 1, 2024: Artwork Creation Period
October 1, 2024: Final Artwork Submission
Additional Information
Artworks should have a minimum size of 12×12 inches, with larger projects accepted and encouraged. Selected artists will collaborate closely with the PHM, receiving necessary historical content and support throughout the creation process.
Contact: Cassie Ward, Executive Director, Putnam History Museum
director@putnamhistorymuseum.org, 845-265-4010
This project is made possible, in part, through the Putnam Art Council’s Arts Link Grant Program with public funds provided through the NY State Council on the Arts with support from the Office of the Governor and the NY State Legislature.