MANSFIELD — The Mansfield Public Art Commission, in partnership with the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library, is accepting artist submissions for “A Cabinet of Curiosities,” a juried exhibition celebrating the natural world through two-dimensional art.

Inspired by Renaissance and Enlightenment-era Wunderkammer — or “cabinets of curiosities” — the exhibition explores humanity’s fascination with collecting, cataloging and marveling at the extraordinary.

These early collections brought together objects from around the world, blurring the lines between science, art, history, and myth.

The exhibition is open to original 2D artwork in all media, including painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, collage, mixed media, and fiber arts suitable for wall display.

Artists of all ages (youth, teen and adult categories) may submit up to three original, ready-to-hang pieces. Work may be listed for sale or not for sale. The host organizations will not take a commission on sales, serving only to connect buyers directly with the artists.

Artists are encouraged to interpret the theme broadly, with a focus on nature, animals, botanical subjects, specimens, collections, real or imagined creatures, and the intersection of science and imagination.

Submissions should draw inspiration from one or more of the five traditional pillars:

  • Naturalia: Wonders of the natural world, including flora, fauna, fossils, minerals, insects, and geological specimens.
  • Artificialia: Human-made objects, artifacts, craftsmanship, and artistic creations.
  • Scientifica: Instruments and discoveries that reveal and measure the universe.
  • Exotica: Rare plants, animals, landscapes, and cultural objects from distant places.
  • Mirabilia: Legendary creatures, folklore, surreal natural phenomena, and the unexplained.

Key Information:

  • Submission Deadline: Aug. 28
  • Notification of Acceptance: Week of Aug. 31
  • Exhibition Dates: Sept. 14 – Nov. 13
  • Location: Mansfield/Richland County Public Library

To apply, artists must complete the online submission form at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd9OAExTW_R8OwcVxVs2kMyomLUUXOvoWyfRJ5QaMBeojWXhQ/viewform?usp=preview. Submissions must include high-resolution images, dimensions, medium, and a brief description for each piece.

For information on commission guidelines, visit https://ci.mansfield.oh.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Public-Art-Guiding-Principles.pdf.

Questions may be directed to Jennifer Pennell, Public Art Commission chair, at pennell.jennifer@moesc.net, or Luke Beekman, commission member, at director@mankindmurals.org.