Seeking talent for our upcoming juried exhibit with Michael Shemchuck and Carolyn Edlund!
Submit your artwork from August 5 - September 11, 2026

Abstract in
Asheville

A Juried Exhibition of Contemporary Abstract Art
Inspired by "Linear Thinking: A Visual Dialogue"

$1000 in total prize money will be awarded

FIRST PLACE: $500 | SECOND PLACE: $300 | THIRD PLACE: $200

Submission Details

Call for Entries

UpMarket Gallery — Asheville, North Carolina

UpMarket Gallery invites artists from across the continental United States to submit work for our upcoming national juried exhibition, “Abstract in Asheville.” This exciting showcase of contemporary abstract art will be presented in Asheville, North Carolina — a vibrant destination known for its thriving arts community, creative energy, and spirit of innovation.

What does “Abstract in Asheville” mean?
This exhibition celebrates the limitless possibilities of abstract art — from bold explorations of color and form to expressive gestures, textures, patterns, and conceptual interpretations. Whether your work is geometric, organic, minimal, expressive, or experimental, we invite you to share your unique artistic vision. The theme is intentionally open: submit the abstract work that best represents your creative voice.

About the Exhibition

  • Application / Submission Window: August 5 – September 11, 2026
  • Exhibition Dates: October 2 – January 3, 2026
  • Eligibility: Open to all states within the  continental US 
  • All work must be for sale
  • This is a juried exhibition — not all entries will be accepted

Art Mediums Accepted

The following mediums not accepted for this exhibition: photography, digital art, installation art and art made using artificial intelligence.

How to Enter

  • Please Read our Rules and Guidelines First

    Click here and review prior to submitting an application

  • Apply and pay the $25 entry free

    Please fill out all required fields within the form. Upload 1-3 images of your art (please include title, medium, and size). Enter your payment details which will be processed securely via Square, and submit your form.

  • Check your Email for a Confirmation

    You'll receive an email confirming we’ve received your submission and payment. If you do not receive an email confirmation, please reach out to marketing@upmarketgallery.com.

AWARDS

Cash prizes will be awarded to outstanding works:

  • First Place: $500

  • Second Place: $300

  • Third Place: $200

MEet our jurors

Michael Shemchuck

Michael Shemchuck

Michael Shemchuck is a mixed media abstract artist living and working in Northern California. Largely self-taught, Shemchuck did not emerge on the art scene through a conventional path. His career has traversed the worlds of applied arts and visual expression, with his work evolving over the past two decades through a deep engagement with materials, process, abstraction, and design. Shemchuck is represented by several galleries throughout the United States and Canada.

Carolyn Graham Edlund

Carolyn Graham Edlund

Carolyn Graham Edlund is the founder of Artsy Shark, a “top ten” art website started in 2009 that features and promotes emerging artists. With a background as the owner of a production studio and art sales rep, she has acted as an art business expert, writer, speaker for the past 15 years. She has juried and judged more than 50 visual art competitions and has extensive experience as a curator.

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