Portland Public Library invites illustrators to submit work for an upcoming exhibit, O Lar, which explores the question “How does home inspire your illustration?” O Lar means “home” in Brazilian Portuguese. The exhibit will be curated by local illustrator Michaela Flint. 

Submission Guidelines:

The exhibit is open to illustrators. Illustrators may choose to create an original illustration or choose an existing piece that they believe follows the theme of the show. Please include a paragraph explaining how home inspires your illustration work. All work must be gallery ready and clean. Wall pieces should be wired securely with picture wire. No wet paint will be accepted. Diptychs are allowed but multiple-piece works with more than two pieces will not be accepted.

• Submission details: Artists may enter two pieces. There is no size limit. Work accepted to the exhibit will be required to remain in the gallery for the duration of the exhibit, October 4–December 31, 2024. Accepted works will be received in September.
• Deadlines: Please submit up to 5 photos of the piece(s) with the required description of the work by July 31. Submissions should be uploaded through this form. Please email questions to harkness@portlib.org 
• Entry Fee: There is no entry fee. Works will be for sale with 100% of the proceeds going back to the artist.
• Notification: Portland Public Library will notify all artists to inform them about placement in the exhibit by August 15, 2024.
• Dates and Location: The exhibit will be on display from October 4–December 31, 2024. There will be an opening reception on October 4. The gallery is open to the public during all library hours.

About O Lar

O Lar will be a curated show featuring illustrators residing in or connected to Maine. The theme of the show is, “how does home inspire your illustrations?” The show will be curated by Michaela Flint. Flint is a Brazilian American artist and illustrator. Her mother is a citizen of the United States and her father is a citizen of Brazil who was unfortunately deported back to Brazil due to visa difficulties. Being of two different cultures has permeated everything that Flint does. With the experience of her father’s deportation, the idea of home and belonging has inspired her ever since she was a child. Flint believes that art is the best way to capture the public’s interest for connection. She believes that illustrations leave a positive impact on those who see it. Flint wants to recreate the same feeling of hope and happiness that she experienced when she first discovered her favorite illustrated books as a child. Flint’s philosophy in her illustrations is to bring fresh perspectives and narratives to a wide and diverse audience. Her illustrations are inspired by her mixed culture, advocacy, and the city of Portland, Maine where she calls home. Flint is honored to have the opportunity to uplift her fellow illustrators. She is excited to share a diverse amount of talents with you.