MFA Circle Gallery : In the City 2027

International Deadline: November 18, 2026 – Skylines, crosswalks, alleyways and shops; bright lights, buses, taxis and crowds. These are just a small list of elements that create the essence of an urban environment. Some aspects of city life are universal and can represent any city, anywhere, from a large metropolis to a small town. Every city as well, has unique symbols and iconic places that signify the identity of the community, such as restaurants, festivals, music halls and graffiti.

We welcome all artists to submit original work that gives us the sense of your urban experience. Whether you are an urbanite or a city visitor, give us a visual story of the city.

Works selected by the Juror will be exhibited in Maryland Federation of Art’s (MFA) third In the City Exhibition in Circle Gallery from February 3 – 27, 2027.

ELIGIBILITY
Entry is open to artists residing in any of the states or territories of the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Any original 2D or 3D work that follows our exhibition guidelines will be considered.  All entries must be original and completed solely by the artist’s hand.

JUROR
Rob paints primarily en plein air and has a particular interest in the use of wider angle perspectives and the depiction of movement within his paintings.

Born 1982, Rob Pointon has been painting since he was a child under the tutelage of his artist Grandmother, then, as an adult, graduated with a First Class Honours degree in Fine Art from Aberystwyth University before going on to study at The Royal Drawing School in London. Having been a full time professional artist since 2006, Rob’s skills have developed through his work on locations all around the UK and abroad. Originally from the Staffordshire moorlands Rob is now based in South Cheshire.

Rob is a full member of the ROI (Royal Institute of Oil Painters), a member of MAFA (Manchester Academy of Fine Arts), the British Plein Air Painters and the outdoor painting collective The Northern Boys… see more

AWARDS
Awards designated by the juror total $1000.00.

ENTRY FEE
1 or 2 entries $45 (MFA Members $30). Up to 4 additional entries $6.75 each (MFA Members $4.50). Entry fees are non-refundable.

APPLY ONLINE
Visit us online for complete details.

Notification Dec 17, 2026 @ 5 PM

SALES
Work must be for sale. Artists will retain 70% from sales.

About:
The MFA incorporated as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization in 1968 and, through the hard work of a growing and enthusiastic membership, opened the Circle Gallery located at 18 State Circle, just steps away from the State House in Annapolis. The gallery is located in a restored loft space in the heart of the Annapolis Historic District and has been operating continuously since opening its doors. The MFA has also reached out beyond its doors through its Alternate Space efforts, often bringing art to unexpected places.