First Annual Photography Showcase

Theme: The Beauty of Texas

Entry Deadline: December 19th, 2026

Whether you've just picked up your first camera or have spent years perfecting your craft, this brand new annual showcase was created for you. Each year, we will invite photographers of all ages and skill levels to share their unique perspective through the art of photography. There's no better place to begin than right here in the Lone Star State. This year's theme, The Beauty of Texas, celebrates the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant communities, rich culture, and quiet moments that make Texas one of a kind. We want to see Texas through your lens. Submit your best work through our online entry form by December 19th.

Submissions will be reviewed by a jury of award sponsors and community arts figures through a blind selection process. No photographer's name is revealed during review ensuring every image is evaluated solely on its own merit. Selected works will be displayed in the Wright Art Gallery from February through April 2027, with awards determined from accepted photographs by a dedicated panel of judges.

Selected entrants will be contacted with instructions for hand delivery or advance shipment arrangements with museum staff. Join us in building a creative tradition that honors both the art of photography and the spirit of our great state. We can't wait to see what you capture!

If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to call us at (940) 553-1848 or email programs@rrvmuseum.org.

ENTER TODAY

  • Deadline for submission: December 19, 2026, 4:30pm

    Notification of acceptance: By January 8th, 2027

    Receiving date for accepted photography: January 29th, 2027 by 4:30pm

    Private Reception: February 6th, 2027, time TBD

    Exhibit Open to Public: February 9 - April 24, 2027

    Removal/Pick-up: April 24, 2027

    • Open to all ages! 

    • Physical presentation: If accepted, the entrant must furnish the print(s) of selected photos as described in their submission form.

    • Original Work: All photos must be original work, taken by the entrants. No third party may own or control any materials the photo contains, and the photo must not infringe upon the trademark, copyright, moral rights, intellectual rights, or rights of privacy of any entity or person.   Work found to be copied from copyrighted work will not be hung.

    • AI-Generated Photography: Photography created entirely or partially using artificial intelligence (AI) tools, such as DALL·E, Midjourney, or similar platforms, are not permitted.

    • Image Alterations: While it is in the nature of photography to edit images to achieve optimal results, any editing that significantly adds, removes, or changes the nature of the photo should be disclosed. 

    • Sales Requirement: All submitted works must be for sale.

    • Photography must be appropriate for viewers of all ages.

    • The exhibition committee reserves the right to reject works that do not meet exhibition standards

    • By entering the contest, entrants agree that photos submitted can be used by the Red River Valley Museum for advertising purposes.

    • Submissions will not be accepted once the deadline lapses

    • Artists may submit 1-3 entries for a non-refundable fee of $30.

    • Additional entries may be submitted for $5 per artwork.

    • Your submission will not be processed until the fee is received.

  • Click HEREto be taken to a Google form that will allow you to fill out the Entry Form, upload photos of your artwork, and enter payment information in one easy place.

    • Insurance: Artists are responsible for insuring their artwork. The museum is not liable for damage or loss of any work.

    • Framing/Presentation: The RRVM is unable to print or frame any works for you. You must provide your work ready for display- whether that be framed or printed on canvas/metal/other material.

    • Works must be wired for hanging (no sawtooth hangers). Special installation needs must be discussed in advance.

    • Labels: A label with your name, the title of the work, and price must be attached to the back of each piece. 

    • Sales: RRVM will handle all sales and retain a 20% commission on all sold work.

    • Duration: All works must remain on display for the full duration of the exhibit. No early removals or sales will be permitted. Failure to comply will result in a 3-year exclusion from future exhibitions.

    • The museum reserves the right to reject any work that arrives late, is unstable, or differs significantly from the submitted images.

  • In-person delivery:

    • Artists may deliver accepted works in person to: Red River Valley Museum, 4600 College Drive, Vernon, TX 76384

    • Drop-off deadline: January 29th, 2027, from 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM

  • Awards will be presented across two age brackets, Youth and Adult, so every photographer has the opportunity to be recognized among their peers. Entry fees go directly toward funding awards, and we are actively seeking business sponsors to help make this inaugural show a success.

    Partnering with the Red River Valley Museum is a wonderful opportunity to invest in the creative growth of our community and support local artists of all ages. If your business is interested in becoming a sponsor, we'd love to hear from you!

    Contact Faith, Program Coordinator, at programs@rrvmuseum.org or call us at 940-553-1848 to learn more about how you can get involved.