Below is the application and guidelines for the Whatcom READS Art Challenge & Exhibit. You may fill out the application online using the form at the bottom of this page.
Whatcom READS 2026 Art Challenge & Exhibit
Open to any local artists working in any media
ALLIED ARTS ART CHALLENGE EXHIBITION: March 6-28, 2026
The Art Challenge offers artists of all ages and experience levels an opportunity to explore their own legacies and to present their work for public display.
Where: Allied Arts Gallery, 1213 Cornwall Avenue, Bellingham, WA
Contact: Allied Arts, 360-676-8548 or gallery@alliedarts.org
Key dates
Art drop-off days: Tuesday, March 3, 11am – 4pm
Opening reception: Friday, March 6, 6pm – 9pm
Allied Arts Gallery Exhibit dates: March 6 – 28, 2026
Artwork pick-up: Tuesday, March 31, 11am – 4pm
How to Participate
- Read the book Solito by Javier Zamora. Books are available to borrow at any Bellingham Public Library and Whatcom County Library System or for purchase at Village Books.
- Create an art piece, and explain how the book inspired your art.
- Bring your piece and submission form to Allied Arts’ gallery on March 3.
- Forms can be filled out online, printed and brought with you, or filled out at the gallery.
- Membership with Allied Arts of Whatcom County is not required to submit an artwork.
- Works will not be juried.
- All mediums, genres, and skill levels are welcome to participate in the exhibit.
- Space is limited and items will be showed on a first come, first hung basis.
- Limit one piece per person.
- Applications will include an explanation on how Solito inspired your art piece.
- Participation is free of charge.
- Works meant to hang on the wall cannot be more than 30 inches in any direction. Please discuss any sculpture/not-hanging work with Staff (number on the application form) to have it approved. We have limited pedestal/table space, thus sculpture pieces not approved by Allied Arts Staff may be turned away on drop off day.
- Your art piece must be clearly tagged with your name, title, medium, dimensions, and price (or NFS status), in addition to the submission form.
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