Creative Arts Collective

Saturday, July 25, 2026 | 6–8 PM
Creative Arts Collective 2026 | ESPC

Theme: Light in the Darkness

A powerful theme about hope, redemption, and Christ as the light of the world. Works can show contrast between darkness and light, healing, or moments of spiritual awakening.

This theme can be interpreted figuratively or literally. It is meant to open you up, not shut you down — be creative and run with it!

"You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden."

Matthew 5:14
Art gallery from a previous Collective Creative Arts Collective event Artwork and gathering

An Evening of Art & Community

We invite artists to exhibit or perform their original pieces as representations of our theme. The evening will feature a gallery of visual art mediums, musical performances, poetry readings, spoken word, and much more.

All ages and skill levels are welcome. This collective is open to members, regular attendees, and anyone who finds us — Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church values artists and their God-given gifts.

Light refreshments will be served.

Register at espc.church/creativearts

Submission Details

You may submit up to 4 pieces to either perform or display. Pieces will be selected based on available space and connection to the theme.

Registrations open July 1–15, 2026. Be prepared to send photos (for visual art) of each piece, dimensions, and medium. Submit recordings and lyrics for songs and words for poetry/spoken performances. For all submissions, include a 100-word (or fewer) artist statement. No late submissions accepted.

Send submissions (and questions) to George Searcy:
gsearcy@easternshorepca.org

Important Dates

1 Jul

Submissions Open

Registrations open July 1–15 at espc.church/creativearts. Include photos, dimensions, medium, and a 100-word artist statement. No late submissions accepted.

24 Jul

Artwork Drop-Off

Drop off framed, ready-to-hang artwork on the afternoon of Friday, July 24th. More details will be emailed a couple of weeks before the event.

25 Jul

Creative Arts Collective

6:00–8:00 p.m. in the Administrative Building. Gallery unveiling, live performances, poetry, spoken word, and light refreshments.

2 Aug

Exhibit Closes

Visual art remains displayed through Sunday services on August 2nd. Artwork pick-up: Mon–Thu, August 3–7, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. No early tear-down allowed.

Submit at espc.church/creativearts

Frequently Asked Questions

Connect and Grow Through Creative Community

How many pieces may I submit? +
You may submit up to 4 pieces to either perform or display. Most likely not all 4 will be selected — pieces are chosen based on available space and connection to the theme.
I'm not a professional artist. Is this for me? +
Absolutely! All ages and skill levels are invited to participate. Don't be scared — this is a very encouraging, loving community.
I don't belong to ESPC. Can I still submit? +
Yes! Whether you attend, are a member, or just stumbled upon this collective, you are welcome. Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church values artists and their God-given gifts.
Can I sell my artwork? +
You may leave business cards at your exhibit and include contact info in your artist statement. Displaying price tags and collecting money during event hours is not permitted.
Do I need to write an artist statement? +
Yes — a statement of 100 words or fewer is required. It can be about your specific piece or a general bio. Email gsearcy@easternshorepca.org if you need help.
When will I know if my piece is selected? +
You'll receive a confirmation email within a week of submitting. A follow-up will be sent the first week of June letting you know which pieces will be exhibited.
I won't be in town that evening. Can I still exhibit? +
You do not need to be present to exhibit. All artwork must be dropped off by July 24th and must remain up until 1:00 p.m. on August 2nd. No early tear-down is allowed.
When do I drop off and pick up my artwork? +
Drop off framed, ready-to-hang artwork the afternoon of Friday, July 24th. Pick up Mon–Thu, August 3–7, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. If unable to come in person, arrange for a trusted friend or family member.

Whether you're exploring your creativity or a seasoned artist, we invite you to share your gifts and glorify God.