CALL FOR POETRY

Calling all poets! We need your submissions for an upcoming art exhibition inspired by your poetry! True Grit Art Gallery will select 5 poems to prompt visual artists to create original artworks in response. Poets whose work is chosen will be invited to read their poems live at the Opening Reception on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 6:00–8:00 PM.

Important Notes About Our Selection Process:

• This is NOT a contest. We would never claim the authority or expertise to judge the overall quality or merit of your poetry.

 

• Our goal is to select poems that will inspire fresh, imaginative, and uncommon visual artworks — pieces that challenge our artists to step outside their comfort zones rather than pull something already sitting in the studio.Because of this, certain imagery or themes may be more or less likely to spark the kind of original response we’re looking for. Poems are evaluated for their potential to inspire strong visual responses as they come in.

 

• You do not need to write new work specifically for this call. Previously written or published poems are welcome.

 

• Due to tight timelines on the visual art side, we begin assigning poems to registered artists on August 1, 2026. 

Submission Guidelines:
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• Poems should be relatively short so they can be enlarged and displayed beautifully alongside the artworks.

 

• Please format your poem to fit on one page (8.5” x 11”, portrait orientation) in 11pt Arial font, including the title.

 

• Submit up to 3 poems in PDF format.

 

• Include a short bio and your contact information.

 

• Send to: [email protected] Subject line: Poetry Submission 2026

Deadline For Poetry Submissions : Thursday, July 30, 2026 by 11:59 PM

Selected poems will be published on our website, professionally printed, and exhibited alongside the corresponding artworks for the duration of the show.

This exhibition is designed to build meaningful connections between the visual and literary arts communities in Southern New England.

Poetic Visions 2026 will run from Saturday, September 12 through Saturday, September 26, 2026.

True Grit Art Gallery is located at 38 Center St, Middleboro, MA.

Regular hours: Tuesday 11–4, Wednesday–Friday 10–5, Saturday 10–3.

We can’t wait to read your work and see what magic it inspires!

Warmly,
The True Grit Art Gallery Team