5x5 means “loud and clear”

In a time when so much in this country feels uncertain, heavy, or divided, this show offers a place to gather, create, and be heard, seen and held. This is a group show is by the artist community and for the artist community—an invitation to meet fellow artists, make collaborative connections, turn up the volume on creative expression, and showcase beautiful art that is accessible to all economic brackets.

We want to hear your visual voice, loud and clear—whether art is your rebellion or your celebration, your question or your answer.

Show up. Share your signal. Let it be seen.

This group show is co-curated by Chelsea Stephen (founder) and Zachary Rau (artist, educator).

Important dates and deadlines (NOTE: APPLICATIONS HAVE CLOSED)

Application is portfolio based. Apply using online form below (Deadline is Nov 30).
Notification of entry by Dec 16. Juried by Zachary Rau and peers from the Portland art community- Jury list to be announced soon!
Finished artwork due Feb 6, 2026
Show dates , Feb 20th- March 22nd.

Artwork Guidelines (after application review)

Maximum of five pieces per artist can be submitted.
All work must be 5”x5” with a max depth of 3” (we will offer pre-orders for 5”x5”x0.8” cradled wood panels for $2 per panel)
Medium: All analog mediums are accepted — painting, drawing, collage, photography, sculpture, and mixed media.
3-dimensional work: can not exceed 5”x5”x3” and must be able to display securely on the wall.
All work must be ready to hang at the time of drop off.

After the Show: Sales & Artwork Pickup

All artwork will be available for sale at the flat rate of $75
Artist receives 60% of the sales
Any unsold artwork will be returned to the artist (pick-up only)

Frequently Asked Questions

5X5” CRADLED WOOD PANELS FOR $2/PANEL AT COST:

Art is due in the gallery by February 6, 2026. Final selections will be made by the jurors based on available space and curatorial vision, so not all submitted works may ultimately be displayed.
yes, but space and storage is limited so please email the curator to arrange an early drop off at thepurpledoorpdx@gmail.com
yes but we do not accept packages to the gallery and request that you ship to the curators residence. Please email thepurpledoorpdx@gmail.com for mailiing instructions
All artwork will be sold for $75 and the artist will get 60% of the sale of their piece.
all items MUST measure 5”x5” on the face and no larger than 3” depth. We happily encourage a diverse range of materials and mediums as long as they are ANALOG.
We offer 5×5x.8” cradled wood panels - SEE IMAGE TO LEFT - to anyone who requests them, at cost for $2 per panel (max 5). You can also build one out of ceramic or wood cuts, sculpy, crotchet, a 5×5” frame or whatever medium is your preference…. reach out if you have specific questions regarding this.
We have a limited number ready now that can be picked up before Christmas, on a first come first serve basis. After we run out of those the rest will be available for pick up on or after January 4th. We ask that you to come pick these up during regular gallery hours please.
Yes, as long as its 5×5” (give or take ¼ inch) but please be aware the work still needs to be analog, not a digital print.
The show is set to open February 20th and will end March 22. All work will remain on view for the duration of the show.
Yes! We will have all work available for sale online.