Call for Artists: New Orleans International Vodou Day Symposium Art Show

1. Event Overview

This art exhibition is part of the New Orleans International Vodou Day Symposium, taking place at Xavier University of Louisiana on May 23, 2026.

Artists are invited to submit original works that explore the theme “Connecting Oneness with Traditional African Universality.” The exhibition highlights creative interpretations of Vodou and African Traditional Religions as living traditions that express cultural continuity, spiritual knowledge, healing, and community connection across the African diaspora.

Selected works will be displayed during the symposium as part of the day’s cultural programming.

2. Theme

Connecting Oneness with Traditional African Universality

Artists are encouraged to explore how African spiritual traditions express universal themes of connection, transformation, resilience, and cultural memory.

Submissions may reflect historical traditions, contemporary interpretations, or personal artistic perspectives inspired by Vodou and African diasporic spirituality.

3. Submission Requirements

Artists must submit the following:

• A short artist biography (100–150 words) highlighting relevant background or experience.
• An artist statement describing the artwork and how it connects to the exhibition theme.
• High-quality images of the artwork, including medium and dimensions.
• Artist contact information including name and phone number.

Submission Deadline: April 12, 2026

Please use the Symposium Artist Submission Form to submit your application.

4. Exhibition Details

The exhibition will take place during the New Orleans International Vodou Day Symposium on May 23, 2026 at Xavier University of Louisiana.

Artwork must not exceed 24 x 24 inches.

Artists are responsible for installing their own artwork and providing any necessary installation hardware.

Artwork will be displayed on easels provided by the symposium.

Artists may begin installation at 8:00 AM on symposium day.

All artists must return at 4:00 PM to remove their artwork.

5. Artwork Submission Images

Please submit high-resolution digital images of your artwork for the review process.

Images should clearly represent the artwork and allow the committee to evaluate artistic detail and presentation.

6. Artist Benefits

Participating artists will have the opportunity to:

• Share their work with a local and international audience
• Contribute to a cultural event celebrating Vodou traditions and heritage
• Connect with artists, scholars, cultural leaders, and community members
• Participate in a global dialogue on African diasporic spiritual traditions

7. Evaluation Criteria

Submissions will be reviewed by the Symposium Committee based on:

• Alignment with the exhibition theme
• Artistic quality and craftsmanship
• Originality and creative interpretation
• Cultural integrity and respectful representation

8. Artist Notification

Artists selected for the exhibition will be notified by:

April 24, 2026

9. Contact Information

For questions about submissions or the exhibition, please contact:

neworleansNVD@gmail.com