SMCMoA highlights a SMC student's artwork during every exhibtion on our dedicated "SMC Spotlight" wall in the Armistead Gallery.  If you would like to submit work please follow the guidelines below.

Guidelines

Preparation of artworks for exhibition: All work must be ready for installation when delivered.

Matted works

Matted works should have mats of a minimum of three (3) inches width. Use white mat board (not paper) and provide a backing of foamcore or corrugated cardboard cut to the same size as the mat.  It is preferred that all matted works be framed. However, unframed matted works must covered with acetate for protection, attached with two (2) inch wide plastic package-sealing tape (masking tape inevitably releases during installation), wrapped around image and mat and attached to backing; masking tape will not hold on acetate. When leaned against a wall, the work should not bend. Large (larger than 40 x 32) works on paper can be installed unmatted, with pushpins through the corners, or with binder clips.

Stretched canvas works

For paintings on stretched canvas, wrap canvas around stretchers and paint edges with acrylic (not oil unless there is adequate drying time), or use a wood strip frame. Raw canvas is acceptable for installation, but note that it is very easy to soil and very difficult to clean. All paintings on stretched canvas or on panels must have either D-hangers or screw eyes and multiple-strand picture wire of adequate strength when delivered for exhibition. Paintings or framed work in any medium without D-hangers or screw eyes and picture wire will not be accepted. String, cord, speaker wire, etc. are not  acceptable substitutes for picture wire. Screw eyes or D-hangers should be attached to the stretcher approximately one-third down from the top of the work. Picture wire should not be so long that it will reach the top of the frame or stretcher, nor so short that it is taut and straight when the work is hung. The picture wire used must be of sufficient strength to safely support the work. Work that is warped so that it will not hang flat on wall will not be accepted.

Large canvas works or works on paper

Works on unstretched canvas, large unmounted/unmatted roll paper, works requiring non-traditional installation may be installed using pushpins, T-pins, etc., in accordance with customary professional practice for works for which such installation is integral to the work, at the discretion of the museum director. This does not constitute license to avoid the above preparation requirements in the case of work that would customarily be matted, mounted or framed for exhibition.

Labels

All work needs to be accompanied by typed/word processed labels/identification in triplicate. One set of identification labels needs to be placed on the back of the work, one set temporarily affixed to the front, and one set provided to the gallery attendant for exhibition label preparation. Identification needs to include: Artist’s name, title of work, medium, size, date, sale price if applicable, mailing address as well as current e-mail and phone number. Clearly indicate the top of the work on the back.

Works with special requirements

If your work requires projection or sound equipment, it is your responsibility to provide said equipment for the duration of the exhibition. Museum staff can direct the student to sources from where the equipment may be obtained.

If your work is likely to require maintenance/repair during the exhibition (e.g. rice painting/sculpture), the artist agrees to make necessary repairs within 24 hours of notification by museum staff.

Limitations

Work that is intended to be suspended from the ceiling may not exceed 25 lbs, and only existing ceiling anchors may be used. The museum will accept no work over 8 feet in height.

The door opening into the museum measures 6’ wide by 6’8” high. If your work does not fit through the doors, we cannot exhibit it in the gallery.

The gallery uses present standard gallery lighting to illuminate work.  If you have special lighting needs, the gallery will make every effort to make alternative suggestions and assist you with your installation requirements while maintaining the integrity of the exhibition as a whole.

Floor pieces may not have any material touching the gallery floor that may damage the carpeting.  When you intend to use floor pieces, discuss their make-up with the gallery coordinator to make sure they will not damage the carpet.

The gallery will not exhibit work that may endanger museum staff and visitors.

Handling of artworks and liability

All work will be handled with care; however, student volunteers helping with the exhibition, the gallery director, student assistants, museum staff and Saint Mary’s College will not be held responsible for damages or loss that may occur before, during or after the exhibition. Student artwork is not insured! It is recommended that artists insure their own work if they so desire.

Selling your artwork

If works are for sale, please write the price on the labels.  The museum takes a 25% commission. Artists will be mailed a check for their portion of any sales after the exhibition closes.

CONTACT: 925 631 4363 OR kep1@stmarys-ca.edu