A small town in South Carolina may not be the first place you think of when it comes to the vibrant art scene in the Southern United States, but each year, Lake City proves otherwise. What began as a nine-day celebration of art and community is now shaking things up with an extended 17-day festival in 2026. This expansion offers even more opportunities for artists and art lovers to immerse themselves in art as the town transforms into a living gallery.
Now in its 14th year, ArtFields invites emerging and established artists from across the Southeastern US to apply for its signature juried competition. Now through November 1, artists working in any media who reside in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, or West Virginia can submit their work for a chance to compete for more than $100,000 in cash prizes. The entry fee is $25.
The 2026 festival will run from April 10 to May 2, marking the first time the event stretches across 17 days. This nearly doubles the previous length to accommodate growing crowds, expanded programming, and increased opportunities for participating artists.
What started in 2013 as a bold idea to elevate artists living and working in the South has grown into a cornerstone event for the region. To date, ArtFields has awarded more than $1 million in prize money and helped launch the careers of countless creatives. Today, it continues to thrive not just with the flagship festival, but as a year-round arts organization dedicated to celebrating and supporting visual artists from the Southeast and beyond.
Submission Timeline
- Application Deadline: November 1, 2025
- Selected Artists Notified: December 2025
- Festival Dates: April 10–May 2, 2026
Prizes
- Grand Prize: $50,000
- Second Place: $25,000
- People’s Choice (2D): $12,500
- People’s Choice (3D): $12,500
- Merit Awards: $2,000 (Five awards)
- Southeastern Partner Awards: Exhibitions and professional opportunities
To learn more, visit artfieldssc.org.
