Call for Artists – Group Exhibition

In conjunction with Lian (蓮): The Lotus Festival

Lan Su Chinese Garden invites artists to submit work for a group exhibition celebrating the lotus flower—蓮花 (lián huā)—as a powerful cultural, philosophical, and seasonal symbol. This exhibition will take place during peak summer bloom, when lotus flowers rise across the garden, mirroring the living subject of the show itself.

We are seeking 2D artworks only that offer a unique interpretation of the lotus and its layered meanings.

Key Dates

Submission Deadline: Midnight on June 20, 2026

Exhibition Dates: July 3–August 22, 2026

About the Theme

The exhibition will be presented within the garden during the lotus bloom season, creating a dialogue between living plants and artistic interpretation. Visitors will experience the artworks alongside the real lotus in bloom, reinforcing the connection between art, nature, and reflection.

The lotus holds deep significance in Chinese culture, especially as a summer flower associated with purity, resilience, transformation, and spiritual awakening. Rising from the mud yet remaining unstained, it is traditionally seen as a symbol of clarity of mind and moral integrity.

The Song dynasty scholar Zhou Dunyi 周敦頤 (1017-1073) famously wrote in On the Love of the Lotus that the lotus is the “gentleman of all flowers,” admired for its ability to grow in humble conditions without losing its elegance or purity. This philosophy has inspired generations of scholars, poets, and artists who see the lotus as a model for personal cultivation and inner strength.

Beyond symbolism, the lotus is also deeply woven into daily life and culinary tradition—its leaves used for steaming rice, its crisp roots enjoyed seasonally, and its seeds transformed into sweet pastes found in mooncakes and pastries. It is both poetic symbol and lived experience.

Submission Guidelines

• Artists are invited to interpret the lotus in any 2D medium—painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, collage, or mixed media. Works may be traditional, contemporary, abstract, or conceptual.
• Works should respond to the theme of the lotus and its meanings.
• Submitted artwork must be appropriate for all ages and suitable for a family-friendly audience.
• Each artist may submit up to two artworks for consideration by uploading images in PDF, JPG, or PNG format.
• Due to limited space, the maximum suggested size for wall pieces is 20” x 24”.
• All pieces must be delivered ready to install: works on paper must be framed; frames and canvas pieces must be wired to hang on our gallery Stas hooks. No frames with saw hooks or empty frame backs. If artwork is framed, we require the use of plexiglass or acrylic glazing instead of real glass to ensure safety in the event of accidental falls or drops. Products must include any necessary display items.
• Additional questions: please email [email protected].

Timeline

Submission deadline: Midnight on June 20th
Acceptance Notifications: June 22nd
Artwork Drop-off Date: June 30th
*Please note that artwork can not be dropped off after June 30th to participate in the group show. If you are unable to drop off your artwork on June 30th, you will need to arrange an alternative drop-off time the week before (June 22nd – June 26th) with Haley Reda ([email protected]).

Exhibit Runtime: July 3–August 22
Pick-Up of Work: August 25th
*Please note if you are unable to pick up your artwork on August 25th , you will need to arrange an alternative pick-up time with us.

Consignment Details: Consignment is 50/50. All artists must review and sign a consignment agreement outlining the terms.

Artist Submission Form