Applications for Festival’s 3rd Annual Fine Art Exhibition
Application deadline: February 20, 2026 by 5pm

Women Rising: Expanding Visions/Diverse Perspectives 2026

CASCADIA Women’s International Film Festival invites women artists to submit their artwork for consideration
in the 3 rd annual art exhibition in conjunction with CASCADIA’s film festival. CASCADIA provides a platform for
women directors to have their voices heard and their stories told through the medium of film.

Three years ago, CASCADIA expanded its programming to include women in the visual arts and is sponsoring
another exhibition this year. We invite you to submit artworks addressing a broad range of themes, issues, and
ideas. The exhibition, Women Rising: Expanding Visions/Diverse Perspectives will highlight the multiplicity
of women’s voices, styles, and interpretive approaches by artists living in the Pacific Northwest.

Barbara Matilsky, Curator/Art Historian, will select artworks for the exhibition.

The in-person film festival runs April 30-May 3. The selected art will be exhibited at the Dakota Art gallery from
April 3 until April 25. Deadline for submissions is February 20th.

Artists may submit up to 3 pieces for consideration. Submissions in all media will be considered with works that
hang on the wall no more than 24” wide and sculptures for pedestals maximum 18”x18”x18”.

EXHIBITION INFORMATION
Location: Dakota Arts, 1322 Cornwall, Ave. Downtown Bellingham, WA 98225
Show Hours: Monday- Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Gallery staffed by Dakota Art.
Exhibition opens: April 3. Exhibition closes: April 25.
Promotion: Press releases and announcements will be sent to local publications. Artists will supply
basic text and all photos.
Installation: Dakota Arts is responsible for exhibit installation.
Delivery & Pick Up of Artwork: Artists are responsible for delivering their artworks to the gallery and
picking them and ALL packing materials up at the end of the show. It is preferable to deliver and pick up
artworks in person but if shipped prepaid return shipping labels must be included with your artwork.
Reception: The exhibition will include an opening reception on April 3 in conjunction with the first Friday
Downtown Art Walk. This event will be open to the public with artists and CASCADIA staff and
volunteers in attendance.

STANDARDS AND EXHIBITION GUIDELINES
Artwork must be in good condition and ready for display – i.e. it comes with frames and hanging
devices as necessary.
Dakota Arts will receive a 40% commission on all work sold in the gallery. 
FEES & HOW TO APPLY: There is no fee to apply.
Applicants must fill out the Exhibit online application form.
Go to: https://forms.gle/XwhC34CoyXS9fy7M6 to access.
Applications close Friday, February 20, 2026 at 5pm. Selected artists will be notified by March 6.

For more information email: bkbitner@hotmail.com. Please DO NOT contact Dakota Art with questions.