FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
[Mansfield, Ohio] — [April 28, 2026] — The Mansfield Public Art Commission, in partnership with the Mansfield Richland County Main Public Library, is thrilled to announce a prehistoric-themed call for art: Unearth a Story™. This dynamic exhibition coincides with the library’s summer reading program and invites the community to explore the wonders of history, paleontology, and the hidden narratives buried beneath the earth.
The slogan Unearth a Story™ opens a world of creativity, from uncovering hidden histories or exploring the past, the slogan underscores the joy of discovery that reading brings. It also emphasizes that every person and every community has stories waiting to be found and shared.
In a move to foster community-wide creativity, this year’s exhibition is open to all age groups, from budding young paleontologists to professional adult artists. We encourage submissions in a variety of media, including painting, photography, digital art, textiles, and mixed media.
“Art is about discovery,” said Jennifer Pennell, Public Art Commission Chair. “With the ‘Unearth a Story’ theme, we want to see Mansfield’s collective imagination come to life—bridging the gap between the ancient past and our creative present.”
Submission Details:
- Theme: Unearth a Story (Prehistoric/Dinosaur/Archaeological focus)
- Eligibility: Open to all ages (Youth, Teen, and Adult categories)
- Deadline for Entries: Friday, May 29, 2026
- Notification of Acceptance: Week of June 1, 2026
- Exhibition Dates: Starting Monday, June 15, 2026
- Drop off Location: Library Communications Office, 45 N. Walnut St., Mansfield
Artists may submit up to three pieces for consideration. All works must be original and ready to hang. Original art may be listed for sale or not for sale. Any art sales would be communicated directly to the artist, and the Public Art Commission and Library would not take any commission to facilitate the sale beyond providing the artist’s contact info.
How to Submit:
Artists may submit artwork for consideration digitally by completing the submission form, which can be found at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd9OAExTW_R8OwcVxVs2kMyomLUUXOvoWyfRJ5QaMBeojWXhQ/viewform?usp=preview
Please include high-resolution images, dimensions, medium, and a short description for each piece.
For Public Art Commission: Guiding Principles, visit https://ci.mansfield.oh.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Public-Art-Guiding-Principles.pdf
Contact: Public Arts Commission Chair, Jennifer Pennell, at: PENNELL.JENNIFER@MOESC.NETor Commission Member, Luke Beekman at: DIRECTOR@MANKINDMURALS.ORG with any questions.
