Celebrating the Birth of Our Nation: Arkansas 250
Request for Proposals (RFP)
On July 4, 2026, America celebrates its semiquincentennial, the commemoration of the 250-year anniversary since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This anniversary encourages Arkansans to reflect on our role in the creation of our nation: as individuals, as communities, and as a state. Over the next year, events across The Natural State will highlight the people, places and history that have helped shape our state and nation.
Call for Artwork: Arkansas250 Commission Seeks Arkansas Artist for Semiquincentennial Commissioned Work
Request for Proposals (RFP)
Sponsor Organizations
The Arkansas250 Commission, the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, and the Arkansas Arts Council.
Project Overview
The Arkansas250 Commission is coordinating Arkansas’ participation in the national celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking America’s Semiquincentennial on July 4, 2026.
This is a call for artwork that celebrates Arkansas’ history and contributions to the nation over the past 250 years, 1776 -1835 prior to statehood and since becoming a state on June 15, 1836 through present day. The Arkansas250 Commission will select one artist to create an acrylic or oil painting on canvas that best represents the history and contributions of the state of Arkansas. The selected artwork will be purchased by the sponsor organizations for a purchase price of $20,000.
Arkansas artists are invited to submit up to three original drawing samples for consideration. The Arkansas250 Commission will meet with the selected finalists for formal presentations. Please review the additional entry information on the website link below..
Important Dates and Deadlines
Artwork Proposal Due Date:
November 1, 2025
Artist Notification:
December 15, 2025
Delivery of Completed Artwork:
March 1, 2026
Official Unveiling of Artworks:
Spring 2026