The 112th Annual Exhibition of the Allied Artists of America, scheduled to take place from September 13, 2025, to January 11, 2026, at the Reading Public Museum in Pennsylvania, represents a monumental event in the contemporary art calendar. This exhibition exemplifies the enduring tradition of artistic excellence combined with a forward-looking celebration of creativity and craftsmanship.
Founded in 1914, the Allied Artists of America has a long-standing legacy of promoting originality in various visual art forms, and this year’s exhibition is no exception. The show will feature roughly 100 exceptional works, chosen through a rigorous juried process from submissions worldwide. Artists over the age of 18 are welcome to participate regardless of membership status, encouraging broad inclusivity in the artistic community.
The exhibition focuses on traditional, handcrafted media, welcoming original paintings in oil, watercolor, pastel, acrylic, as well as sculptures and mixed media creations. Notably excluded are photography, digital pieces, and AI-generated art, an intentional choice to emphasize the tactile and manual skills underlying fine art creation. Submitted works must adhere to size parameters — no dimension may exceed 48 inches, framed — ensuring any piece harmonizes within the museum’s intimate gallery spaces.
Beyond showcasing masterpieces, the exhibition honors artistic achievement with substantial monetary prizes exceeding $45,000. Honors include the prestigious Audrey Love Award and Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medals of Honor, recognizing exceptional talent and boosting artists' careers. International entrants are required to have PayPal accounts to facilitate efficient prize distribution.
The Reading Public Museum, renowned for its dedication to arts and culture, serves as an ideal host, offering visitors a stimulating environment enriched by its location beside Wyomissing Creek and its mission to connect art with community education. Participating artists must navigate shipping logistics carefully, arranging prepaid return shipping and insurance for their valuable works.
Complementing the physical exhibition is an extensive online showcase running from September 1, 2025, through September 1, 2026. This virtual platform expands accessibility, enabling global audiences to view and engage with the artwork beyond the museum walls.
This exhibition not only upholds a century-old tradition but also invigorates contemporary art dialogue by bringing together diverse perspectives rooted in skillful technique and personal expression. It offers collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to witness the dynamic evolution of American and international contemporary art within a prestigious institutional setting.
For detailed submission guidelines and exhibition updates, consult the official Allied Artists of America page: Allied Artists of America 112th Annual Exhibition.
Learn more about the venue and its cultural offerings here: Reading Public Museum.
FAQs
Who is eligible to enter the exhibition?
All artists aged 18 and above worldwide may submit work, with no membership requirement.
What media are accepted?
Original paintings in oil, watercolor, pastel, acrylic, sculptures, and mixed media are accepted; photography, digital art, and AI pieces are excluded.
What are the size limits for entries?
No dimension, including the frame, may exceed 48 inches.
Are there prize opportunities?
Yes, cash awards total over $45,000, including the Audrey Love Award and tiered medals honoring excellence.
Where and when is the exhibition held?
The physical exhibition runs September 13, 2025 to January 11, 2026, at the Reading Public Museum; the online exhibition spans September 1, 2025 to September 1, 2026.
How do international artists receive awards?
Payments are made via PayPal; recipients must have a PayPal account.