Artist Open Calls
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Saturday, October 3, 2026
4:00–8:30 PM
Outdoors on GRAC’s Backporch
18+ event
Winners chosen entirely by audience vote
Stick around after the competition for featured performances by Tab Caudill and Mantra Lounge
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4:00–6:00 PM
Solo artists, duos & trios
Maximum of 3 performers
15-minute set
$200 cash prize
Emceed by special guest artist Anna Kline
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6:30–8:30 PM
Bands of 4+ performers
15-minute set
$300 cash prize
Emceed by Joplin Rice of Mantra Lounge
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A limited number of acts will be selected to compete
No judges—the audience chooses the winners!
Each audience member receives one official vote
Performers are encouraged to bring friends, family & supporters
All genres are welcome within GRAC’s Code of Conduct
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$10 per performer
Solo — $10
Duo — $20
Trio — $30
4+ performers — $40 maximum
Application fees are non-refundable
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Applications Open: August 12
Application Deadline: September 18 at 11:59 PM ET, or when the submission cap is reached
Competition: October 3
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General Admission: $10
Accepted performers receive event admission
Each act receives admission for one complimentary crew member
Additional crew, friends, family & supporters must purchase admission
Everyone attending must be 18+
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All performers must be 18 or older by October 3
Submit one application per act
Provide at least one publicly accessible recording for consideration
Selected acts must be available for the event
Acts should plan to arrive approximately 90–120 minutes before their competition for check-in and setup
Equipment
GRAC provides:
Performance stage
Main speaker system
Electrical power
Extension cords
Performers provide:
Instruments
Amplifiers
Microphones & stands
Drum kits/percussion
Mixers & monitors
Cables, pedals and other necessary performance equipment
Location & Weather
Planned as an outdoor event in GRAC’s Backporch/parking lot
In case of severe weather or safety concerns, the event may move inside to the GRAC Performance Hall
Schedule, performance order and set times may be adjusted if necessary
Performer Perks & Details
Designated backstage/holding area in the GRAC Annex
Acts may sell their own merchandise in designated areas
GRAC may feature selected performers’ social media in event marketing
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Backporch Battle of the Bands
2027 Exhibition Season
The theme, 'Kaleidoscope of Stories: Many Pieces, One Light,' honors the bicentennial of our historic stained glass windows, originally commissioned in 1827. Like stained glass, our community is made of unique pieces—each with its own color, history, and voice—shining together as one light. We seek artists whose work reflects rich legacies, artisanship, storytelling, and fresh perspectives within and beyond the Gateway Region. Gateway Regional Arts Center (GRAC) welcomes applications for our 2027 gallery exhibition season. Only a limited number of proposals can be accepted due to high standards and space constraints. We encourage thoughtful, polished submissions and early application, as review is rolling and slots may fill quickly. Preference is given to artists with Kentucky ties, but select slots are reserved for outside perspectives. Click the submit button to apply!
Want to join our Artist Directory?
Submission Deadline: There is no deadline, we are accepting artists on a rolling basis.
Location: Artist must be located in and willing to reach the entire Gateway Region, which includes Montgomery Co, Bath Co, Menifee Co, Morgan Co, & Rowan Co.
The Gateway Regional Arts Center is calling for artists to join our Artist Directory. The directory is a free resource for artists in the Gateway region. The directory is a great way increase visibility for your work and to connect with potential clients, collaborators, and art buyers.
Submit Your Mural Request - Rolling Application
Submission Deadline: No deadline, rolling submission.
Are you a building owner wanting to join the mural craze sweeping our region? Wait no more! Due to the recent uptick in murals, we have received dozens of requests from owners of buildings and businesses wanting to add a mural to their walls. Through our new mural program, we hope to connect local businesses & building owners to mural artists from the area.
Interested building owners should submit the form linked here to be added to our list to contact for potential projects. Murals increase tourism, increase foot traffic, enhance business sales, and beautify otherwise empty/dull areas. We appreciate your interest in continuing to make Mt. Sterling the Rural Mural Capital of Kentucky!