Newtown Forest Association, in partnership with local artist Annette Womack, is excited to announce a call for artists for “The Great Art-Doors,” a trail exhibition being planned at Cherry Grove Preserve.

NFA and Womack are seeking local artists to display their work along the scenic trails in a temporary outdoor exhibit. The unique opportunity celebrates the harmony of art and nature, inviting the community to experience creativity in an open-air setting

The theme is “Open” for this inaugural exhibit. Open can be taken to mean open spaces or just open to interpretation. Artists are encouraged to create works that engage with the natural surroundings, spark curiosity, and enhance the visitor experience on the trails.

The call to artists is open to artists of all backgrounds and disciplines from the greater Newtown area. All work must be suitable for outdoor display and able to withstand varying weather conditions.

Artwork must be created with durable, weather-resistant materials; freestanding without causing damage to the environment; and family-friendly with no sexual, offensive, or derogatory themes, nor overt political messages.

Artists will have an approximately 6- by 6- by 8-foot space to display their work.

Installations must be safe for public interaction.

This is a leave no trace exhibit. All work must be installed and removed without harm to the environment.

The deadline to apply is November 1, 2025. Artists will be notified by January 15, 2026.

The exhibition will be presented June 27-September 11, 2026. Artwork must remain installed for the full duration of the exhibit.

An opening reception is being planned.

Those interested should submit the following to annettewomack@me.com: artist name and contact information, proposal or concept description (maximum 300 words), up to three images/sketches of the proposed work or similar past works, and a short artist statement (max 150 words).

Artists should note the trail will remain open to the public throughout the exhibition, and artwork will not be monitored at all times. By participating, artists acknowledge that neither Newtown Forest Association nor Annette Womack can be held responsible for loss, theft, or damage to any artwork.

NFA and Womack reserve the right to veto any work that does not meet our guidelines.

This is a volunteer-based exhibition meant to celebrate creativity and the beauty of nature. While there is no direct financial compensation, artists are welcome to offer their work for sale. Contact information will be shared in the program, on signage, and through social media promotion. All sales will be handled directly by the artist, who would retain 100% of any profits.

For additional information, contact Womack at AnnetteWomack@me.com.