Ottawa County Art Trust

Ottawa County and the Holland Area Arts Council have joined forces to establish the Ottawa County Art Trust. An art trust allows the County to build a collection of works to be both displayed and cataloged for generations to come. To build the collection, Ottawa County and The Holland Area Arts Council collaborate for the annual Ottawa County Art Trust Exhibition.

During the juried show, a number of works are purchased and become part of the permanent art collection of Ottawa County. In addition, businesses and private individuals purchase works to be donated to the Art Trust collection.

Sponsors and residents are encouraged to purchase works for the collection in the honor of another and a special honorarium tag will be added to the work and cataloged. Artists and art appreciators can register here to be notified of Art Trust Exhibitions.

2022 Prospectus & Call for Artists

Ottawa County and The Holland Area Arts Council are collaborating again for the fourth year with the Ottawa Count Art Trust. This is a juried art collecting program featuring Ottawa County resident artists. The juror for 2022 Grand Haven artist and Lakeshore Visual Arts founder Maggie Bandstra. Banstra will select works to be purchased and collected by the County. Become part of the collection.

This exhibition is open to Ottawa County residents or property owners ages 18 years and older. Those employed in Ottawa County are also eligible.

Submission Details

• Number of Entries
  An Artist may submit up to two original works in any medium except video, reflecting the rich range of cultural traditions, activities or natural features that represent life in Ottawa County, Where You Belong.
• Eligible Entries
  Only original works completed in the last three years are eligible. Commercial reproductions will not be accepted. Traditional print media, photography and digital art are not considered reproductions. 2-D pieces may not exceed 48" high by 60" wide, and 3-D pieces may not exceed 6‘ high x 3‘ wide. Only work easily handled by two people will be accepted.
• Bio
  Artists must also email a bio, no more than 250 words to mary@hollandarts.org
• Fees
  There is a $15 entry fee for one or two works. You may pay personal check, money order or pay in cash at the time you drop off your art.
• Art Sales
  Purchase awards will be subject to a 30% commission to the Holland Area Arts Council and a 10% Ottawa Art Trust for a total of 40%. Price your work up accordingly.
• Entry Condition
  Works must be ready for presentation. Artwork must be framed securely with a wire. No saw tooth hangers. An unframed gallery wrapped canvas with a depth of 1.5” with a wire is acceptable. Any works improperly framed without a wire will not be accepted. Works must not be wet to the touch. Unsuitably prepared, framed or hazardous, or unstable works will be declined. Email mary@hollandarts.org for questions.
• Art Drop-off
  Be sure to label your works and complete an entry form. Works may be dropped off between 10am and 12pm on June 13 and June 14 at the Fillmore Complex Administration Building, 12220 Fillmore Street, West Olive, MI 49460. Use Parking Lot C and enter the main lobby.
• There is limited exhibition space and some works may not be juried in to the show.
  We will ask artists to pick up unaccepted works on June 16 between 10am and 12pm.
• Reasonable care will be given to the artwork delivered, but neither Ottawa County and its agents or HAAC assume liability for loss or damage of the artwork while in its possession.
• By submitting your work you authorize Ottawa County and HAAC the use of your images for promotion.

Ottawa Area Art Trust Frequently Asked Questions

• When do I pay?

  Bring $15.00 in cash or check made out to Ottawa County when you drop off your artwork at the Fillmore Complex Administration Building 12220 Fillmore St. West Olive, MI 49460 parking lot C- in the lobby. This fee covers up to two works of art.

• Do I have to live in Ottawa County to participate?

  Those who work in Ottawa County are eligible to participate as well.

• What kind of art are you looking for?

  Art that represents the county in your view. People, landscapes, businesses anything that can be found in Ottawa County. The art can be abstract or realistic, paintings, drawings, photos or sculpture. We are excited to see what our artists have to offer.

• How many pieces will be bought?

  It depends on the prices. The Trust may buy one expensive piece or more moderately priced works. We will have to see what comes in.

• How do I price my work?

  Make sure you add the 40% commission over the price you wish to receive.

• Do I need to label my work?

  Yes! This is a must. Print out the labels on the form or make your own with the name necessary info. Securely tape them to the back of the work.

• Why do I need a wire?

  The hanging system we are using has hooks. The hooks need to grab onto a wire. Please, no sawtooth hangers.

• How can I help with this program?

  Share the program with others or contact mary@hollandarts.org for more information.

• Why do I have to give a bio to Mary Sundstrom?

  In case you are selected for the show, we will need to know about you.

• What if I don’t know what to say in my bio?

  Email mary@hollandarts.org and she will help you write a simple bio.