Celebrating Contemporary Artistic Excellence: The 112th Annual Exhibition of the Allied Artists of America

Celebrating Contemporary Artistic Excellence: The 112th Annual Exhibition of the Allied Artists of America

The Allied Artists of America, one of the nation's oldest and most respected artist organizations, proudly presents its 112th Annual Exhibition—a premier showcase of contemporary American art. For the first time in its illustrious history, this prestigious exhibition will be hosted at the Reading Public Museum in Reading, Pennsylvania, from September 13, 2025, through January 11, 2026, marking a milestone in the organization’s ongoing commitment to artistic excellence and cultural enrichment.

A Historic and Prestigious Artistic Event

Founded in 1914 in New York City, the Allied Artists of America has long been a beacon for artists dedicated to traditional and modern forms of fine art. The 112th Annual Exhibition continues this legacy by annually presenting a juried selection of outstanding works in a diverse range of media including oil painting, watercolor, pastel, acrylic, sculpture, graphics, and mixed media.

This year’s exhibition not only offers a vibrant panorama of contemporary art but also reflects the organization's educational mission to promote original creative work that honors the integrity of the artist’s vision.

Exhibition Venues and Format

The 112th Annual Exhibition will be presented both online and in a curated physical display. The Reading Public Museum will feature approximately 100 works selected from the online entries, extending the exhibition’s reach to a broad audience both in-person and digitally. The online exhibition will be accessible on the Allied Artists of America website from September 1, 2025, to September 1, 2026.

The physical exhibition will occupy multiple galleries at the Reading Public Museum—including the American Gallery, the Irvin and Lois E. Cohen Modern and Contemporary Gallery, and the Works on Paper Gallery—providing a comprehensive look at the talents of contemporary American artists.

Distinguished Jury and Awards

The caliber of the show is assured by a meticulous Jury of Selection and a renowned Jury of Awards. For 2025, the juror of awards is Dr. Thomas Folk, an esteemed art scholar and leading authority on Pennsylvania Impressionism, who brings extensive expertise to the adjudication process.

Artists competing in the 112th Annual Exhibition will vie for over $45,000 in cash awards, including the prestigious:

  • Audrey Love Award ($5,000)

  • AAA Gold Medal of Honor ($6,000)

  • AAA Silver Medal of Honor ($4,000)

  • AAA Bronze Medal of Honor ($3,000)

These awards reflect the exhibit's high standards and reward artists who demonstrate both technical mastery and creative vision.

Inclusive and International Participation

Open to all artists aged 18 and older worldwide, the exhibition encourages submissions from a wide spectrum of artists. Unlike some shows, you do not need to be a member of the Allied Artists of America to participate, promoting inclusivity and broad engagement.

Eligible works encompass original two-dimensional art and sculpture, including but not limited to oil, watercolor, pastel, acrylic, mixed media, and graphics. The organization notably excludes photography, digital art, and any art altered by AI technology to maintain traditional artistic integrity.

For more details on entry requirements and deadlines, artists can visit the official call for entries on platforms like ShowSubmit.

Size and Presentation Requirements

Artwork selected for the museum exhibition must adhere to strict size guidelines, with two-dimensional works not exceeding 48 inches in any dimension, including framing. Sculptures and reliefs also have specific size and weight restrictions to ensure manageable installation.

All works must be professionally framed, wired, and ready to hang—with no glass allowed; plexiglass is recommended for safety and preservation.

The Exhibition’s Impact on the Art Community

This event stands as a major platform for artists to gain national exposure and recognition. Hosting at a reputable institution like the Reading Public Museum enhances public engagement and provides artists the opportunity to connect with collectors, critics, and art enthusiasts.

Through its dedication to showcasing original, high-quality artwork, the Allied Artists of America continues to foster an environment where contemporary artistic excellence thrives while honoring historic traditions.

Relevant Keywords and Anchor Links:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Who can submit artwork to the 112th Annual Exhibition of the Allied Artists of America?
Artists worldwide, age 18 and above, may submit original two-dimensional and sculptural artworks that meet the guidelines. Membership is not required.

Q2: What types of artwork are accepted and what is excluded?
Accepted media include oil painting, watercolor, pastel, acrylic, mixed media, graphics, and sculpture. Photography, digital art, or AI-altered pieces are not accepted.

Q3: Where and when will the exhibition be held?
The exhibition will be online from September 1, 2025, to September 1, 2026, and physically at the Reading Public Museum from September 13, 2025, through January 11, 2026.

Q4: What are the size restrictions for submitted artworks?
Two-dimensional works must not exceed 48 inches in any dimension including frame. Sculptures have specific dimension and weight limits detailed in the prospectus.

Q5: Are awards given, and how much are they?
Yes, over $45,000 in cash awards will be given, with top prizes including the Audrey Love Award ($5,000) and various AAA Medals of Honor ranging from $3,000 to $6,000.

The 112th Annual Exhibition of the Allied Artists of America invites the public and art aficionados to experience the best in contemporary American art, celebrating the creativity and vision of artists who honor both tradition and innovation.

Back to blog