Ignite Studio seeks submissions for “Layered”, our upcoming juried exhibition. The theme “Layered” refers to something that is composed of or constructed in tiers or layers, one on top of the other. This theme can be applied in different contexts, such as a layered structure, like a multi-tiered cake or hairstyle. In a less literal way, you can apply it to text or meaning with multiple interpretations. Layered can also refer to a design using multiple elements or patterns to create depth and visual interest. Layers can be either superimposed or literally laid over as in paint, collage, and mixed media. Overall, the theme signifies complexity, depth, or multi-dimensionality.
This show will be juried by Gina Baird. Gina M. Baird, LMHC, ATR-BC, ATCS is a multi-media artist and a credentialed art therapist. In addition to maintaining a long-term private practice, Gina is a celebrated artist known for her contagious love for expressive art. Her art celebrates multiple layers in both materials used and in the symbolic presences of the artworks themselves. Gina has been awarded numerous grants that have supported her art and her clinical work and have helped her have an impact on her community. Some examples of her impact as a local artist include a leadership award as adjunct faculty, Penrod Grant Awards, a creative renewal grant through United Way, a Hoosier Women Artist award, and she was awarded a fellowship of Creative Renewal through the Indiana Arts. Gina has taught art in numerous settings, presented expressive art-making at numerous conferences, and shares her art in juried shows and competitions throughout the Midwest. Gina’s art has been featured and published in numerous publications, such as the cover images with a personal commentary on the art and her work with trauma survivors in the text, Art Therapy and the Neuroscience of Trauma: Theoretical and Practical Perspectives in both the 1st and the 2nd Edition.
We are looking for pieces that speak to the theme of “Layered.” Are you an artist who likes to use layers of paint to build up your surfaces? Do you work in the art of collage, gluing materials such as fabric or paper onto a surface? Do you have a piece that has hidden layers or meaning? Do you use multiple media to create your compositions?
Deadline to Submit: September 24
Monetary prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place as selected by our guest juror. Artwork will be displayed at Ignite Studio, in the lower level of the Hamilton East Public Library at: 5 Municipal Drive, Fishers, IN, 46038.
Submission Guidelines
Submit all required materials via email to hurstk@hamiltoneastpl.org by Sept. 24.
Artists may submit up to three pieces.
Submissions should include the following information for each piece:
Artist’s name
Title
Dimensions of artwork
1 – 3 images of work (1 image per piece, up to 3 pieces)
Price
Media
Subject line of email should include the above info for all pieces in this format:
Subject: The Road Less Traveled, Oil, 12×20, $270; Self-Portrait, Acrylic, 18×30, $300; Sunrise, Mixed Media, 8×16, NFS
Reception and Display
Stop by and see “Layered” on display from Oct. 25, 2025 – Jan.9, 2026. Join us for a special Artist Reception on Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025 at 6 PM featuring live music by Forward Motion.