Ceramics Open Call: WILD CLAY

The Taplin Gallery at the Arts Council of Princeton is pleased to announce a CALL FOR ENTRY to "WILD CLAY", guest curated and juried by artists John Reinking and Marg Diaz.

"Wild clay" refers to clay that is not commercially available, but instead has been personally sourced from the earth. It must be discovered, dug, used in its raw state - or sometimes, refined - and then tested. Unlike commercially processed clay, wild clay enables the maker to tap into the unique characteristics of a specific place — its colors, textures, and material properties — revealing the distinct identity of the local landscape.

Clay is intrinsically linked to anthropology: we understand much about societies of the past through their use of clay. Local “wild” clay offers discovery of local history, ecology, geology, science, and a contemporary view of art. In most cases local wild clay is infused with such color and character incomparable to commercial clay.

Working with wild clay fosters a deeper connection to the long lineage of makers who, for thousands of years, shaped and reshaped their worlds through this material. It offers a way to step outside the relentless cycle of consumerism and mass production, reminding us that art and ecology are intertwined and fostering awareness of our materials, where they come from, and our impact on the land.

Works from WILD CLAY will be curated and juried by John Reinking and Marg Diaz; a Juror’s Award of $250 will be awarded to one selected work.

Exhibition guidelines:

• Artist must be based in the United States and over the age of 18.
• Works must have been made during or after the year of 2023.
• Artworks must not exceed 24" in any direction. Work to be displayed on the wall must not exceed 50 pounds.
• Artworks must be ready to hang/display with detailed instructions if necessary.
• Works presented must be available for sale.
• Primary medium must be ceramic/clay.
• Works must remain in the gallery for the duration of the exhibition.
• Gallery commission is 40% of selling price.
• Artist are responsible for the cost of shipping their work to and from the Arts Council located at 102 Witherspoon Street, Princeton.

Important dates:
 

• October 1, 2025: Submissions open
• November 24, 2025: Deadline for submission
• December 14, 2025: Notification of acceptance
• March 13, 2026: Delivery deadline of accepted works
• March 21, 2026: Opening Reception from 3-5pm
• April 18, 2026: Exhibition closes
• April 20 - 25, 2026: Return shipping

Fees & shipping:

A submission fee of $35 is required for all submissions up to three pieces. Accepted artists must include a paid return shipping label; works sent without this will be considered a donation to the organization. Works sold will be shipped directly to the buyer; the return label fee is non-refundable.

Artists will be notified by December 14, 2025 of their acceptance.