In December of 1944, the Swope’s second director (1944-60), Dr. Allen Albert, and curator Hazel Dodge announced plans for a new and exciting annual exhibition where all artists of Terre Haute and vicinity could enter their work. They planned for it to become as permanent and noteworthy as the Hoosier Salon program, and the first Wabash Valley show opened May 6, 1945 to an outstanding attendance of 350 people.
The Wabash Valley Exhibition remains one of the Museum’s most popular events, attracting a diverse array of artists and patrons alike. Because of this, it is safe to say Dr. Albert and Ms. Dodge achieved their goal of furthering the support and interest in Midwestern art.
Distinguished Juror
This year’s distinguished juror is independent filmmaker Louis Cox. Brooklyn-based Cox has deep ties to the Swope — his grandfather John Rogers Cox was the first director of the Museum in 1941, and along with his wife Hermine Haslem, purchased the founding collection.
Louis is an alumnus of the New School in New York City, where he studied literature and screenwriting while assistant teaching for cinematography and lighting courses. He went on to work at The-Artery, a small VFX studio in Manhattan where he served as a production coordinator on several projects including those with Mercedes-Benz, Netflix, and Warner Bros Pictures. He has previously taught for the International Center of Photography along with the School of Creative and Performing Arts. Most recently Louis completed work on his feature length film ‘Now Again’ acting as both writer and cinematographer.
For Artists
Artists currently or formerly residing in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, and Ohio are invited to submit up to five works completed within the last two years (2018 – 2020) that has not been previously exhibited at the Swope for consideration. Entry fee is $10 per piece submitted, and free for members of the Museum. For more information about becoming a member, visit our membership page.
76th Annual Wabash Valley Exhibition Prospectus
Submit an Entry
For Patrons
The Wabash Valley Exhibition presents opportunities not just for artists, but for art collectors and benefactors as well. Benefactors and collectors may participate and support our regional artists by sponsoring honorary juror’s awards or by purchasing from the show as a purchase award. If you are interested in either of these options for this year’s exhibition, please call or email the Swope to receive an award sponsorship form. 812.238.1676 x 136 or wve@swope.org
Patrons and artists are also able to contribute to the Danette Angermeier Memorial Merit Award Fund.
Exhibition Timeline
Friday, September 18th entries due via EntryThingy
Friday, September 25th notification of acceptance
Wednesday, October 8th – Sunday, October 11th accepted work delivery
Friday, November 6th opening of exhibition and awards announced
Sunday, January 10th exhibition closes