Biennial 2

NHAA is proud to announce Biennial Two, a premier juried exhibition at The Gallery at Jimmy’s that celebrates artistic excellence and innovation. Open to artists working in New England, this showcase offers an exceptional opportunity to share your most accomplished and impactful work. Nearly $5,000 in prizes will be awarded, including specific recognition for an outstanding abstract work and piece exploring social commentary.

Artists are invited to submit 1 to 3 pieces. Submissions are welcome in all artistic disciplines, including but not limited to painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, collage, printmaking, fiber, and digital art.

This exhibition is a platform to spotlight exceptional talent and the diverse perspectives shaping the regional art scene. We look forward to discovering your artistic voice and vision as part of Biennial Two.

  • JURYING PROCESS:

    In a blind jury process, artwork selections are made by jurors without any identifying information about the artist, ensuring the evaluation is based solely on the quality and merit of the work itself. The meaning behind your work and your artist statement will play a large part in the selection process.

    Artists will be notified of acceptance status via ArtCall for each submission entered.

    ABOUT THE JUROR:

    Bruce McColl was born in Waterford, Michigan in 1966. He attended Cranbrook School, received his BA from Brown University in 1988, and was awarded an MFA from Wayne State University in 1994. Following his graduate studies, Bruce was an instructor of fine art at Tabor Academy, MA, and an instructor of art and art history at Bristol Community College in Fall River, MA.

    Between 2005-2014, Bruce McColl was the Director of the Currier Museum Art Center in Manchester, NH. A recent graduate of the National Guild's Community Arts Education Leadership Institute, today Bruce is the Director of Engagement at the Currier Museum of Art where he oversees education and fundraising.


    Bruce has had numerous one person shows in New England and regions beyond, and he has been included in many two person and group exhibitions. He has been awarded a Pollock-Krasner Foundation Grant, two Fellowships in Painting from “ArtWorks!” in New Bedford, MA, and two residencies at the Vermont Studio Center in Johnson, VT.


    His work is included in the public collections of the Currier Museum of Art in Manchester, NH; Saint Anselm College in Manchester, NH; and, Union College in Schenectady, NY. Bruce is represented by McGowan Fine Art in Concord, New Hampshire.

  • Open to artists living/working in New England (NH, ME, MA, VT, CT, RI) NHAA members and non-members are welcome to apply.

  • Thoresen Werner Prize: $2500
    Award for Exceptional Abstract Work: $750
    Award for Exceptional Social Commentary Artwork: $750

    An Additional $750 in prize money will be given at the discretion of the juror. Funded by the Thoresen Werner Families Fund through the NH Charitable Foundation.

  • Deadline: Monday, July 21, 11:59 pm 

    Jury results released: Monday, August 11

  • All submission fees are waived for Artists Under 30 courtesy of an anonymous donor. If you are not under 30 and the submission fee poses a financial barrier we have scholarships available, please contact us at amanda@nhartassociation.org

    NHAA Members:

    $20 - 1 entry | $25 - 2 entries | $30 - 3 entries

    Non-Members:

    $40 - 1 entry | $45 - 2 entries | $50 - 3 entries

    ARTWORK ACCEPTED:
    We are accepting 1-3 works per artist.

    2D framed work and 3D work will be accepted.

    2D work - maximum framed dimension 72” in the longest direction including frame.

    3D work – Wall hanging 3D pieces must fit within the dimensions above. If your work weighs more than 35 pounds, we ask that you arrange a time to help install your work or provide a hanging system with instructions. Freestanding 3D work must not exceed 42” in width depth, 70" tall. We allow artists to provide special pedestals when necessary or desired by the artist.

    All work must be created within the last 3 years.

    All artists exhibiting online or at any NHAA in person venues must adhere to our PRESENTATION AND FRAMING GUIDELINES.

    FOR ALL ARTISTS UNDER 18 YOU MUST HAVE A PARENT OR GUARDIAN REVIEW THE NHAA EXHIBIT AGREEMENT AND HELP YOU WITH YOUR ONLINE SUBMISSION.

  • Opening Reception: September 5, 5-8 pm | October 3, 5-8 pm | November 7, 5-8 pm

    Exhibit Dates: September 5-November 30, 2025

    Award Ceremony: September 17, 5-8 pm

    Exhibition Tours: Thursday, September 11, 6:30-7 pm, October 9, 6:30-7 pm, November 13, 6:30-7 pm

    Closing Reception: November 22, 11 am-2 pm

    Exhibit location: The Gallery at Jimmy's, 135 Congress St, Portsmouth, NH and online at nhartassociation.org

  • Drop off for accepted work: Sunday, August 24, 10 am-6 pm and Monday, August 25, Noon-6 pm

    Pickup Work: Sunday, November 30, 10 am-6 pm and Monday, December 1, Noon-6 pm

  • ABOUT THE GALLERY AT JIMMY’S:
    The Gallery at Jimmy’s, once known as the Museum of New Art, has been transformed into a contemporary gallery and event space by the Labrie brothers, Peter and Michael. Their passion for music, arts, and culture has breathed new life into this 6,800-square-foot historic venue, located in the heart of downtown Portsmouth. With full-service catering and a versatile space that can accommodate groups of 24-200, The Gallery at Jimmy’s is the perfect setting for private events and art exhibitions.

Please review the eligibility and exhibit guidelines before applying.

The application process has two steps: click “Apply Here” to fill out your ArtCall application and submit photos of your work. Once complete, please click “Pay Fee” to complete your application fee.

FOR QUESTIONS CONTACT: Carol Van Loon (603) 431-4230, carol@nhartassociation.org