Application to Exhibit

NOTE: Applications are not currently being accepted. The next application period will begin in the summer of 2020 and close in mid-October, and selected artists will be offered a show during the season beginning June 2021.

Last year's application (below) is available for informational purposes.

Application for the Season Beginning June 2020


Deadline: 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 16, 2019

Introduction


The Burnett Gallery in the Jones Library is pleased to invite applications for its monthly exhibitions during the upcoming season. Since the founding of the Jones Library in 1921, the Burnett Gallery has offered area artists and craftspeople a public space in which to exhibit their work. Collectively, the exhibits aim to reflect a variety of media, styles, cultural viewpoints, and levels of artistic expression. Such shows have been part of the library's programs to encourage appreciation and understanding of art. Individuals or groups in Amherst and surrounding towns may submit applications.

The Space


The Burnett Gallery is on the 2nd floor of the Jones Library and offers about 70 linear feet of wall space and 600 square feet of floor space. Artists must familiarize themselves with the features and limitations of the gallery space before submitting an application. The Gallery provides hardware for hanging wall works, which must be suitably framed and wired. Nine pedestals are available for small 3-dimensional work. A wall case on the 1st floor of the library provides space for an announcement of the show. Artists are responsible for installing and taking down their shows and for displaying their show announcements. A member of the Burnett Gallery Committee will inform you about publicizing and setting up your show.

How Exhibits are Selected


The Burnett Gallery Committee, composed of local artists and art supporters, reviews applications annually. The next deadline for submission is listed at the top of this page.

If you are offered a show, it may be jointly with one or more other artists because there may be more qualified people requesting space than can be accommodated by solo exhibitions. For joint shows, the Committee tries to choose applicants who are artistically compatible.

Contact Information


Do not hesitate to ask questions. They should be directed to the secretary of the Burnett Gallery Committee, Elisa Campbell, at 413-256-4247 or by email at elisa.campbell@umass.edu.

Please do not contact Jones Library office staff. They cannot answer questions about the gallery and will refer you to the committee member listed above.

How To Apply


Applicants may choose one of the following ways to submit an application:

  • Complete and submit our

    ONLINE APPLICATION [Closed]

    , or
  • Follow the instructions below to submit your application by mail or in person

Application Requirements


If you are submitting your application by mail or in person, please include the following items. Please note that application forms are also available at the Jones Library.

  1. A completed and printed Application to Exhibit Form (PDF)
  2. A compact disc (CD), or color photos, or other quality copies of your artwork

    • Compact disc images must be in JPEG format with 300 dpi resolution. CDs must be PC compatible. An unreadable CD will disqualify the submission. Each image should include your name, title, medium, and dimensions. Please label the CD itself with your name.
    • Color photos or quality color photocopies in clear sheet protectors are acceptable. Items should be clearly labeled with your name, title, medium, and dimensions of the artwork.
    • The number of images to submit is as follows:
      • If you are a single applicant: 8 images
      • If you are a group of 2 or more applicants: 16 total images
    • Please include 2 print copies or provide a CD copy (for each applicant) that the Committee may keep as a reminder of your work.
  3. A brief, typed description of the work to be shown
  4. A brief, typed biographical paragraph (whatever you care to say about yourself). A more formal résumé could also be included, in addition.
  5. A signed copy of the Terms of Exhibiting (PDF)
  6. A self-addressed, stamped envelope for the return of your materials, if you wish.

Please Note


  • Do not send original artwork — copies only.
  • All materials for submission must fit into an envelope no larger than 10" x 13".
  • Your materials must also fit into the self-addressed, stamped, return envelope.
  • No handwritten statements will be accepted (with the exception of the application form).
  • The quality of your application materials influences your chances of being considered for a show. Please keep this in mind as you prepare your application.

Submitting Your Application


Submit the application materials requested above (in person or by mail) to the Burnett Gallery Committee's mailbox in the Jones Library Office.

The address is:
Jones Library
Attn: Burnett Gallery Committee
43 Amity Street
Amherst, MA 01002

Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Applications received after the deadline will not be accepted.

Artists will be notified of the jury's decision by December 31, 2019.

Again, do not hesitate to ask questions. They should be directed to the secretary of the Burnett Gallery Committee (not Jones Library staff).