Artists can apply for Christmas Card Lane
MADISON – Madison Arts Council is accepting applications from artists to enter the fourth annual Christmas Card Lane in December.
Situated in residents’ lawns in Madison’s downtown historic district, Christmas Card Lane is an outdoor exhibit of more than 32 life-size cards that artists have designed and painted.
Christmas Card Lane is open to all artists. Living in Madison is not a requirement to apply or participate in the project.
Application deadline is Sept. 30. MAC members will pre-approve all designs, which must comply in one of these categories: religious, traditional or whimsical.
Artists accepted in the contest can pick up a blank, wooden card on Oct. 1-8. Deadline to submit a completed card is Nov. 18. Christmas Card Lane will open on Dec. 1, in conjunction with the Lantern Parade and tree lighting downtown.
“The exhibit is heavily promoted and featured as both a walking and driving visual tour,” MAC President Tina Clark said. “In its inaugural year in 2014, Christmas Card Lane was featured as a Top 5 Event on multiple, well respected lists as a ‘must-see’ when celebrating the season.”
Exhibits are illuminated until 9 p.m.
The top three artists or groups receiving the most votes on MAC’s website (artsmadison.org) receive prize money. Awards will include “Best in Show,” $450; first place, $300; second, $200; and third, $100. The Christmas Card Lane voting page includes biographical sketches and links for each participating artist or group.
“Madison Arts Council also features each artist or group and their work via social media throughout December,” Clark said. “Some artists and cards will be featured during live radio and TV interviews.”
MAC will provide selected artists with a 4-by-6 foot sheet of half-inch thick, sanded plywood as the design medium. Artists must provide all other needed supplies and materials. Artists can add elements to the card that create a two-dimensional effect.
Artists are responsible for priming their cards, painting the design and placing a final clear coat of sealant on all sides of the card.
Card will be on exhibit from Dec. 1-30.
“Christmas Card Lane is part of the City of Madison’s annual Christmas festivities that include a Christmas Tree Village, a 25,000 musical light-display on Clay House at 106 Main St., a nighttime traditional parade (most cards will be along the parade route) and the Lantern Parade for children,” Clark said.
For an application or questions, call 256-682-7686, email info@artsmadison.org or postal mail to Christmas Card Lane, C/O Tina Clark, 404 Lynn Drive, Madison AL 35758.
