Calls for Artists

Call for Artists

With seven galleries across two locations and a full calendar of annual events, Crooked Tree Arts Center offers a wide range of exhibition and artist opportunities throughout the year. From juried shows to plein air painting events, there are many ways to get involved. Check back regularly for the latest opportunities and details on how to participate.

  • Artist Call: EKPHRASTIC Writing Series
    Date: Jul 7 - Aug 19, 2026
    Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Location:
    CTAC - Traverse City
    Details

    Ekphrastic Call for Summer Exhibits 2026
    Calling all writers—and anyone curious about trying their hand at writing!
    We invite you to visit the Summer Exhibits at Crooked Tree Arts Center–Traverse City and choose an artwork (or artworks!) as inspiration for your writing. You are welcome to respond in any form: a poem, short story, song, screenplay, or any style that speaks to you.
    Can’t make it in person or live far away? Read on for options to participate remotely.
    All participants are invited to share their work at an Ekphrastic Reading on Thursday, August 20, from 5:30–7:00 pm.

    Gallery Writing Hours
    You are welcome to write in the galleries during the following times:
    Monday–Friday: 10:00 am–5:00 pm
    Saturday: 10:00 am–4:00 pm

    For more information please contact:
    Brian- brian@crookedtree.org 231-941-9488

    AND if you can’t make it to the reading either we’d be glad to have another writer or staff read it for you.

    RSVP encouraged
  • Artist Call - Merry Marketplace
    Date: Jul 23 - Sep 21, 2026
    Time: 4:07 PM - 11:59 PM
    Location:
    CTAC - Traverse City
    Details
    Merry Marketplace 2026
    Call for Artists

    Celebrate the season with Merry Marketplace, Crooked Tree Arts Center – Traverse City's annual holiday art market featuring original, handmade artwork by talented regional artists. From unique stocking stuffers to one-of-a-kind statement pieces, Merry Marketplace has become a favorite holiday shopping tradition for our community—and an exceptional opportunity for artists to showcase and sell their work.

    This year, artists may participate in one or both of the following opportunities, creating multiple ways to connect with holiday shoppers throughout the season.

    Option 1: Expanded Holiday Gift Gallery

    November 13 – December 12
    Cornwell Gallery

    Be part of a month-long holiday shopping experience featuring a curated collection of juried, handcrafted artwork in all mediums. The Cornwell Gallery will be transformed into a festive holiday gift gallery showcasing unique, affordable artwork priced between $6 and $100—perfect for holiday gift-giving.

    Artwork Drop-Off: October 26–30

    Accepted artists will complete an electronic inventory form prior to artwork drop-off. Detailed instructions will be provided upon acceptance.

    Option 2: Merry Marketplace Pop-Up Art Market

    Friday, November 13 | 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
    Saturday, November 14 | 10:00 AM–5:00 PM

    Kick off the holiday season during our signature two-day indoor holiday art market! The entire arts center is transformed into a vibrant shopping destination featuring artist booths, festive décor, live holiday ambiance, and hundreds of handcrafted treasures.

    Visitors are invited to browse original artwork, enjoy wine, hot cocoa, and seasonal treats, and experience the joy of supporting local artists while finding meaningful, one-of-a-kind gifts. It's a festive weekend that celebrates creativity, community, and the spirit of the holidays.

    Whether you're looking to fill your booth with holiday shoppers for the weekend or have your work available throughout the season, Merry Marketplace offers a wonderful opportunity to share your art with thousands of holiday visitors.

    View Details & Apply

Want updates? Sign up for email alerts when new calls are posted

If your organization has an opportunity to share (such as a call for entry or exhibition proposal request), you can submit it for consideration in our quarterly artist email by emailing submissions@crookedtree.org.