Earthworks: Evolution

Ceramics Biennial 2026
Earthworks: Evolution

juried by Lisa Orr

Exhibition Dates: April 29 - June 28, 2026 | Submissions Deadline: Jan. 9, 2026

ABOUT: The Umbrella Arts Center of Concord, MA presents its second Ceramics Biennial Exhibition, “Earthworks: Evolution”, a regional show celebrating the depth of history, tradition, and cultural expression in contemporary ceramics, and the ways in which artists continue to expand the field through innovation and reinterpretation. As part of The Umbrella Arts Center's continued commitment to the ceramic medium, we intend for this show to highlight emerging and established artists working in clay. This show invites artists currently residing in New England to honor the skill, knowledge, and diversity of our regional ceramics community.

 

SCHEDULE:

  • January 9, 2026: Application deadline

  • February 20, 2026: Artist Notification

  • April 1, 2026: Receiving (Shipped or delivery by appointment)

  • April 29, 2026: Opening

  • June 28, 2026: Closing/Deinstallation begins

 

ELIGIBILITY: This exhibition is open to all works which use clay as the primary medium, both functional and sculptural. Open to artists currently residing or working in New England.

AWARDS: $1000 grand prize and up to five (5) $100 honorable mentions to be awarded by the juror. 

JUROR: Lisa Orr has been a studio potter for over 40 years. After completing an MFA at the NYSCC Alfred in 1992, she received a Fulbright, an MAAA/NEA and other grants to research ceramics and create films. Her work has been placed in numerous public and private collections. Currently refining an accessible smokeless wood kiln, she also teaches, lectures, and shows nationally and internationally. Orr’s ceramics lushly blend historical, functional roots with organic, fluid forms that embrace gentle asymmetry. Inspired by nature and intuition, her richly textured and colorfully glazed slip-cast surfaces evoke birds on the wing, coral reefs, and blooming flowers, resulting in work that’s vibrant, emotional, and assured.

ENTRY FEE: A flat fee of $35.00 includes up to three (3) submissions. Watch this space for a submission link to open by September 28, 2025.

  • Online payment with use of AirTable submission form preferred. Alternatives include payment via check (payable to The Umbrella Arts Center and mail to 40 Stow Street Concord MA) or via phone to The Umbrella with credit card number (978.371.0820).

  • Payment must be received for entries to be eligible.