2nd Annual Kit Gilbert Juried Showcase

Exhibition Timeline

• Submissions Accepted Beginning: July 20, 2026
• Submission Deadline: October 5, 2026 at 11:59pm Central Time
• Artist Notification: October 19, 2026, via email
• Artwork Delivery: No Later than November 7th, 2026
• Exhibition Dates: November 16, 2026 - January 15, 2027
• Opening Reception: November 19, 2026  |  5:30pm - 8:00pm

About Our Juror

Julie Crews, Huntsville, AL — Julie Crews is an accomplished oil painter who has participated in various exhibitions showcasing her work. Originally from Asheville, North Carolina, she has also called places like southern California—where her awkward high-school self thrived—northern California, which helped her transition into her 20s, and a decade in Louisiana, which expanded her artistic vision, home. Julie earned her Associate of Arts from Brigham Young University-Idaho and now resides in Huntsville, Alabama, with her husband and five children. She operates an open studio and gallery at the historic Lowe Mill Arts and Entertainment, a 122-year-old cotton mill. Julie Crews art reflects the nurturing life of family; while in her studio, she escapes domestic ties, yet her canvases are filled with scenes from her life: backyard fires, children swimming, and moments from her errands around town. The flow of traffic, changes in weather, and the moods of her loved ones significantly influence her work. By recreating these scenes, she captures the emotional undercurrents of her existence, making them a permanent part of her artistic journey.

Honoring Our Namesake

Kit Gilbert, Ruston, LA — Kit Gilbert was a beloved Ruston artist whose creative spirit and impactful work left a lasting legacy in the community. Known for her unique artistic voice and dedication to her craft, Kit inspired many through both her art and her generous, vibrant presence. This annual showcase honors her life, her contributions to the arts scene, and the enduring influence of her work.

About the Gilbert Center

The Gilbert Center is a legacy project of the Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation. It carries forward the combined legacies of artists Ross Lynn and Kit Gilbert, offering a dynamic and inclusive space that celebrates the arts and nurtures the creative spirit. It embodies their passion for creativity, their dedication to fostering artistic talent, and their vision of creating space for the enrichment of lives.

Awards/Cash Prizes

Juror’s Choice/Best-in-Show ($750) — The Best in Show Prize honors the most exceptional work in the exhibition, recognizing an artist whose submission best embodies the spirit of Kit Gilbert’s artistic legacy. This award celebrates creativity, innovation, and technical excellence. The recipient will receive a cash prize of $750 and a certificate of achievement, marking their work as a standout favorite of our juror.

People’s Choice ($500) — The People’s Choice Award invites visitors to have their say by voting for the artwork that resonates most with them the night of the opening reception. This award celebrates the power of connection and community engagement, reflecting Kit Gilbert’s dedication to fostering artistic dialogue. The winning artist will receive a cash prize of $500 and a certificate of achievement, marking their work as a standout favorite of the exhibition’s audience.