Sumac Cottage and Black Belt Workshop seek submissions for “NESTS,” a thematic exhibition in conjunction with the 5th Annual Black Belt Birding Festival. 

Nests can range from the familiar cup-shaped objects perched on branches to cavities inside of trees, holes in the earth, or towers made of spit and mud–all designed for protection and fostering life. What of yours needs protection? What is your sanctuary? Artists are encouraged to reflect on nests–their materials, their structure, their function. Follow your nesting instinct, wherever that leads you.

All media are encouraged to apply. The cottage is a unique display environment that offers conventional wall display, but also mantels, timber ceiling rafters and high ceilings that can be suspended from, along with exterior space for outdoor sculpture and installations. 

Accepted works will be on view at the cottage during Alabama Audubon’s 5th Annual Black Belt Birding Festival, an annual event attracting hundreds to Greensboro. The work will be remain on public display for Fridays and Saturdays throughout August.

Deadline to apply: 6/27/25, at 11:59 PM

Notifications: 7/7/25

Works received: 7/18/25 - 7/24/25

Closing Party for Artists: 8/30/25

Submission instructions: email all submission to magic@sumaccottage.com, subject line “NESTS.” For each submission, include

• 2-3 image along with title, medium, dimensions and retail value. Artworks must have been created between the present day and 2022.

• artist statement and bio

• website and/or social media

You can submit up to 3 pieces. If submitting multiple pieces, submit each piece separately.

We ask for an optional submission fee of $15 to help cover gallery expenses. You can pay this via venmo, @blackbeltworkshop or by visiting venmo.com/u/blackbeltworkshop. You can also pay via pay-pal to hello@blackbeltworkshop.org.