Theme

Everyone is intelligent in their own way. We are leaning into Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences for inspiration. The eight commonly accepted intelligences are:

• Linguistic: The ability to use language effectively, both in speaking and writing
• Logical-Mathematical: The capacity to use numbers and logic to solve problems and understand abstract concepts
• Musical: The ability to recognize, create, and appreciate music, rhythm, and pitch
• Bodily-Kinesthetic: The ability to use one's body to solve problems or create products; often associated with physical coordination and a "body smart" sense
• Spatial: The ability to visualize the world in three dimensions, including mental visualization and the perception of the physical world
• Naturalist: The ability to recognize, classify, and understand elements of the natural world, such as plants and animals
• Interpersonal: The ability to understand other people, including their moods, motivations, and intentions
• Intrapersonal: The ability to understand oneself, including one's own desires, fears, and capacities, and to use this information to regulate one's life
  

Specifically, we want you to lean into what lights up your learning. Illuminate your unique intelligence with works that showcase your inner fire.

Art Requirements

Entry Requirements: Proposals will be accepted from current LSW students and alumni.

Work Media: Photographs, drawings, paintings, prints, textile work, and sculptures will be considered. 2D & 3D artwork will be accepted within the following constraints:

• Explicit and graphic imagery will not be accepted. This includes references to nudity, sex, violence, and drug use.
• Political messaging will not be accepted.
• All final art must be finished completely. No artwork with wet paint, adhesives, etc. will be presented.
• LSW reserves the right of final say in determining whether submissions violate the guidelines above or are otherwise deemed not to be in alignment with our student code of conduct and mission.

Work Size: Two-dimensional artwork is limited to 20 lbs. and can be no larger than 40” x 30”. Three-dimensional art must be under 40 lbs. and no larger than 36” x 36” x 36”. Please reach out if your vision exceeds these parameters. 

Timeline

Round 1 – Proposal Submissions

• • All proposals must be submitted by January 5, 2026
  • Ten proposals will be evaluated and chosen by Literacy Services’ Learner Advisory Board in January
  • A $50 stipend will be provided for selected proposals to proceed to art creation

Round 2 – Art Creation

• • Photographs of final art to be submitted for jury review by March 31, 2026

 

 

Round 3 – Final Art Selection

• • Artists will be notified if their work was selected for exhibition in April 2026
  •  Selected artists will receive a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining our shared goals by April 24, 2026
  • Artwork must be delivered by May 7, 2026 to 1737 N Palmer St., Milwaukee WI 53212

Reception 

• • Selected artists will receive one ticket to attend the Illuminating Literacy fundraiser at Jan Serr Studio. Artists will have the opportunity to discuss their work and network with guests during the cocktail hour from 5:30-7:30 pm. Attendance is not required.