Call for Entry: Rise Survivor Art Show
The RISE Survivor Art Show features art by survivors of sexual violence throughout April in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM). The purpose of this show is to showcase the voices, stories, and healing journeys of survivors of sexual violence.
The Blue Bench is a community of survivors, allies, and advocates working to prevent sexual violence and build a safe and supportive metro Denver. We work collaboratively to provide accessible, survivor-centered support services and empowering education.
Learn more about The Blue Bench: thebluebench.org
The fifth annual RISE Survivor Art Show will be held at the 40 West Gallery, 6501 W. Colfax Ave., Lakewood, CO 80214
Important dates:
Submission deadline: Sunday, February 1st, 2026
Selection process: Artists will be notififed by a member of The Blue Bench team of their selection no later than March 1st, 2026
Artwork drop-off day: Sunday, March 29th, 2026
Artist-only reception: Saturday, April 4th, 2026
Exhibition run: Friday, April 3rd, 2026 through Saturday, April 25th, 2026
Artwork pick-up day: Sunday, April 26th, 2026
What to know:
This show is free to enter.
Artwork must relate to being a survivor of sexual violence.
You may only submit one piece of art this year.
We are accepting paintings, drawings, photography, written works, sculptures, textile artwork, and other mediums.
If you are interested in doing any type of performance piece or oral reading, please email Carolyn Ferrick at (cferrick@thebluebench.org) to discuss your ideas.
Please consider the content of your work. Graphic, religious, political, or controversial pieces will be reviewed by The Blue Bench leadership for the final acceptance decision.
If selected, you will need to drop off your artwork at the gallery location. Instructions for drop off will be given at a later time.
If you are located outside of the metro area, the artist must cover the costs of transporting or mailing the piece to the gallery.
If selected, you are required to drop off your artwork wired and ready to be installed up to industry standards
Please have your canvases wired. If you need assistance wiring your piece, please let us know in the form below.
Any artwork or photographs done on paper need to be framed.
If you are submitting written work, please have it printed and framed with hanging hardware for drop off. If you have any other ways you'd like written pieces to be presented, please let us know in the form below.
If you are submitting a sculpture, please provide your own pedestal.