To fulfill its mission of connecting the community with exceptional resources, space, and experiences, the Forsyth County Public Library (FCPL) allows the use of dedicated exhibition spaces by individuals and groups for civic, educational, cultural, and philanthropic purposes. Artists selected to exhibit works agree to the FCPL Art Exhibit Policy (opens in a new tab).
Exhibit space will be granted, as space allows, on an equitable basis to qualified individuals or groups, regardless of their beliefs or affiliations, provided the content of the display is within the broad standards of community acceptability. While a preference is given to artists residing in Forsyth County, all artists are encouraged to apply.
Artists will be selected at the discretion of the Art Exhibit Committee, with final approval from Library administration. Artists under the age of 18 must have an adult or organizational sponsor for their exhibit. Selections will be made regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of those applying. Selections may be based on current programs, community events, special themes, or other factors related to the library’s operations.
Artists must complete an online application to be considered for exhibition. Applications are reviewed quarterly, and artists are notified of the committee’s decision within 10 days of the review.
Exhibits must be appropriate for a public space and suitable for viewing by all ages. Displays may not include:
Artists may exhibit only once in a twelve-month period.
Exhibits will be displayed for six weeks unless otherwise approved by the Library.
Library staff will work with exhibitors to create an installation plan that outlines design, labeling, installation, and removal of the art. Placement must be completed by the assigned date and at least 24 hours prior to the planned opening. Exhibits must conform to the designated space and be securely affixed to display surfaces. Artwork must be appropriately framed with hardware for hanging. No tape, labels, tacks, or adhesives may be used on walls.
All exhibits must be set up and removed on the assigned dates. Should an artist wish to remove artwork before the allotted time, they must make arrangements with the library staff contact. If the artwork is not removed on time, Library staff may dismantle the display. The Library is not responsible for damage or proper storage of exhibits that are not removed by the agreed date.
A Library staff member will be the point of contact for all publicity related to the exhibit. Before publication, the Library administration must review and approve all materials (including press releases, flyers, etc.).
The Library does not act as a sales agent for the artist and will not engage in selling or negotiating for the sale of artwork. It will, however, allow pamphlets, price lists, and/or a citation in the exhibit giving contact information. Patrons interested in purchasing art should contact the artist directly for pricing and availability information. No sales may be conducted on Library property. While there is no charge for the use of the exhibition space, if works are sold, the library suggests a donation of 15% of the proceeds be made to the Forsyth County Public Library Friends and Advocates. Donations will be used to sponsor library programs.
Presentation of an exhibit does not imply an endorsement of the opinions or viewpoints of the exhibitor by Forsyth County Public Library Staff or Board of Trustees. The Library reserves the right to refuse to exhibit and display materials it deems unsuitable or those materials that do not support its mission. Neither the Library Board of Trustees nor the Forsyth County Government will be held responsible for any damage, loss, disappearance, or theft of any artwork, exhibit item, or other part of an exhibit. The Library does not insure any exhibits and all work is displayed at the exhibitor's risk.
Please review the terms and conditions and click the checkbox to display the application form.