8th Midwest Open

The Midwest Open is an annual exhibition at WMG that highlights the achievements of women and nonbinary artists living in the American Midwest. According to the United States Census Bureau, the 12 states in the Midwest include Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

The exhibition encourages artists to expand their materials, push the boundaries of medium and texture, and explore innovative approaches. It seeks the most provocative work each artist has to offer, fostering a Midwest exhibition that challenges perspectives, sparks dialogue, and leaves a lasting impact. Artists may submit up to three works in any visual medium, provided they have not been previously shown at Woman Made Gallery.

Cash prizes are awarded to three artists in the exhibition, as designated by the juror.   

Awards: 1st place: $300 | 2nd place: $200 | 3rd place: $100 | 4th place: Honorable Mention
 

About the Juror:  Kimberly Oliva (b. 1978, Chicago) is a Chicago-based Midwest curator. She received her Bachelor of Art degree from Loyola University in 2001. She is the owner of Oliva Gallery and has curated over 150 interdisciplinary exhibitions. In 2019, Oliva Gallery exhibited at SOFA, and in June 2025, it will be presenting at Door County Contemporary. Kimberly is the founder of the Mozart Park Mural Program and co-chair of Mozart Park, Chicago Park District.Kimberly focuses on established Midwest artists and has been immersed in the art scene for over two decades. For more information, visit www.olivagallery.com.

The exhibition will be held from August 30 to September 27, 2025 at Woman Made Gallery, 1332 S. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60607.

Calendar 

• Exhibition Dates: August 30 - September 27, 2025 
• Opening Reception: Saturday, August 30 from 4 to 7 PM CST 
• Artist Walkthrough: Saturday, September 27 from 2 to 4 PM CST 
• First Entry Due Date: June 20 | 11:59 PM CST (entry fee: $35) 
• Final Entry Due Date: June 27 | 11:59 PM CST
• Notification: July 18, 2025