Throughout history signs, flyers, and handouts employing powerful images and text all serve to communicate ideas in impactful ways as tools of protest and of community building. This juried exhibit, which runs at the same time that the Democratic National Convention is in Chicago, will strive to uplift the artistry of image combined with text in these designs as OPAL partners with the Gerber Hart Archives to take a look at both the historical significance and the human perspective offered through the storytelling power of the sign. In this moment of political importance, works from the Gerber Hart archive will be displayed alongside signs designed by artists participating in the exhibit. 
Outdoor installation: As part of this exhibit OPAL will make available blank political yard signs for artists to create their own street facing message. This is an open call. Those who wish to have their design included in our outdoor installation are asked to pay a suggested donation of $5/sign

- An online exhibition of works will be hosted on OPAL's website.

• All mediums are accepted  

  Any artist submitting film or video please inquire about available projection system or provide your own display device. 

• Size is limited to  42” in its largest dimension

• Up to two submissions per artist.

• All work must be ready to hang.  No sawtooth hangers will be accepted.

• All work should have been completed in the past three years and not previously exhibited at OPAL. 

• All work meeting the guidelines above will be exhibited in this open-call show

• Please deliver work during drop off dates to the Oak Park Art League at 720 Chicago Avenue in Oak Park, IL.

Important dates:

Drop off work: Aug 3 (1-4pm), 6-8 (1-5pm)

Exhibition dates: August 9 - Sept 6

Opening reception: Friday, August 16th 7-9pm

Pick up work: Sept 7 (1-4pm), 10-12 (1-5pm)

Submission fee:

Artist Member - 1st work @ $25, 2nd work @ $15

Non-Member - 1st work @ $35, 2nd work @ $20