CALL FOR ARTISTS! 4th Annual ArtFeeds: Artists in Action Against Food Insecurity
We are pleased to announce an open call for artists for the 4th annual ArtFeeds: Artists in Action Against Food Insecurity.
We are now accepting entries from March 25 through April 16, 2025, with results announced on April 21.
Interested artists should submit their entry by April 16.
This year we celebrate our 35th anniversary this year, so in honor of this noteworthy year 35 artists will be selected to participate. Artists will be selected based on the quality and creativity of their work, and their connection to the community.
ArtFeeds is a first-of-its-kind collaboration formed in partnership with Camden-based Page Gallery and the Maine State Correctional Facility. Launched in 2022, the fundraiser brings together the creativity of the Midcoast’s vibrant artist community, the talents of the Maine State Prison’s woodworking program, and the vision of Page Gallery to raise funds for AIO’s Food and Energy Assistance programs.
“I love this event because it brings together seemingly unconnected parts of our community who share a common goal: feeding our neighbors. It is a subtle yet important fundraiser in which we see that there are many ways we can use our time and talents to help others,” says Alan Kearl, AIO Executive Director.
The only creative direction given to the artists was to create something that represents the community taking care of one another with food. Artists will be given the choice to work with a bowl or a platter, which is new this year. The first three ArtFeeds events have raised over $80,000 in support for AIO’s programs.
“ArtFeeds is an exciting way for artists to take action to support our community. AIO is an essential organization that touches so many people, and the artists who participate are eager to support it. The bowls and plates are a good metaphor for giving and nourishing, and the surface and shape are a fun challenge for artists. Each year, artists come up with creative ways to paint or collage, or build into or onto the bowls. We always look forward to exhibiting them at Page Gallery,” says gallery manager, Kirsten Surbey.
The finished bowls and platters will be on display at Page Gallery September 6-13, 2025. A silent auction will run simultaneously, culminating with a reception at Page Gallery on September 13. All funds raised will support AIO’s four programs: Food Assistance, Energy Assistance, Weekend Meals Program and Diaper Assistance.