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Exhibition Programming Policy

McLean Project for the Arts is dedicated to presenting contemporary visual art by living artists. Quality of artwork, and the conceptual integrity of exhibition proposals (as well as the particular scope or focus of MPA’s exhibit schedule for that year) are the primary deciding factors in determining which artists are selected for exhibition.

Through rotating exhibits across 5 - 6 galleries, MPA seeks to exhibit work by artists displaying original vision and creativity through a wide range of ideas, approaches, materials and processes. Our commitment to showing the work of artists living and working in the Mid-Atlantic region is notable.

An array of educational programming is scheduled during every exhibit, including artist and curator talks, tours and hands-on activities for schools and other organizations, and lively opening receptions. MPA exhibitions are always free and open to the public.

Women Artists of the DMV (2025), Artist Talk in the Emerson Gallery

Juried Shows

MPA hosts themed exhibitions juried by arts professionals, including museum curators, arts organization curators, art consultants, critics, independent curators, art historians, and accomplished artists. Mid-Atlantic artists are invited to submit images of their work through MPA’s call for entries process. Final selections are made at the juror’s discretion, and cash prizes are awarded. 

Artists who wish to receive a prospectus for upcoming juried exhibitions may contact MPA by mail or email at nsausser@mpaart.org or jlillis@mpaart.org. 

In addition, MPA curators issue a call for submissions twice a year for Spring Solo exhibition held in April and May annually. 

Women Artists of the DMV (2025), Artist Talk in the Emerson Gallery 

How to Apply for a Solo or Group Exhibition

MPA’s Curators organize several solo or thematic group exhibitions per year. These exhibitions result from an introduction to artist’s work through image submissions and studio visits; research in image registries; visits to other galleries and arts organizations; attending lectures, panels, and special events; visiting university art departments; peer recommendations from other artists and curators; readings and other sources of inspiration.

Image Submissions by Artists seeking Solo Exhibitions

MPA encourages artists to submit jpegs and other visual materials of recent work for consideration in solo exhibition programming. Submissions should include 10 – 20 jpegs (max pixels 2,000 at 300 dpi) of recent work, an artist resume, artist statement, and any catalogs or press coverage. Proposals may be submitted via mail or email.

Submitted Proposals of Thematic Group Exhibitions

Curators may submit proposals of thematic group exhibitions that explore an idea in depth. MPA recommends that one individual serve as the project organizer (curator / artist / writer). This individual should not be one of the proposed exhibiting artists.

Artistic quality, depth of research, budget feasibility, attention to administrative detail, and overall professionalism of the proposal are deciding factors in selecting exhibitions. Submissions should include: an exhibition goal or statement; a list of artists with their resumes and current images or videos; experience of project organizer (resume), budget, and an outline of project needs.

Reviews of materials are now done throughout the year. MPA’s Curators review the submissions and will respond to the artist through email or telephone call if a suitable opportunity arises.

This may require some waiting period as the annual programming is developed over a year in advance with an agenda for balance, range and inclusivity. Please DO NOT contact MPA regarding your submission.

Traveling or Shared Exhibitions

MPA also occasionally presents traveling or shared exhibitions of contemporary art that are organized by other institutions. For example, our galleries were recently part of the area-wide WomenArtists of the DMV exhibition curated by Lenny Campello. Other collaborations include coorganized exhibitions with institutions and artist residencies in the schools or community.