Call for Artists: Exhibit at the Trailhead Gallery at Theodore Wirth Park

Call for Artists: Exhibit at the Trailhead Gallery at Theodore Wirth Park

Calendar Year- 2027

Hosted by the Loppet Foundation

The Loppet Foundation is seeking local artists to showcase their work in the Trailhead Gallery, a bright, welcoming space in the Trailhead at Theodore Wirth Park — where art, connection to the outdoors, and community meet.

We are seeking visual artists whose work illustrates  our mission, vision and values. This is an unpaid exhibition opportunity. Artists receive visibility in a high-traffic community space. Priority consideration will be given to local, Minnesota artists whose themes reflect the following:

Connection between art and the outdoors

Meaningful community connections in the outdoors

Representation of local flora and fauna

Celebration of inclusion and diversity in the outdoors

Sustainability and habitat restoration

Connection between wellness and the outdoors

Depictions of Play in the outdoors

About the Trailhead Gallery
Located inside The Trailhead, the public facing building of the Loppet, and  a hub for community connection and trail access for walkers, skiers, bikers, runners, bird watchers and nature lovers, this rotating gallery brings local art into a space visited by thousands of people year-round. It’s an opportunity to share your art work with a vibrant community that values outdoor experiences, sustainability, and inclusion, and the intersection of artistic expression.

Details:

• • Location: The Trailhead, 1221 Theodore Wirth Parkway, Minneapolis, MN
  • Exhibit Length:  4-6 weeks per exhibit
    Mediums: 2D works that can hang on the wall (painting, photography, mixed media, fiber, printmaking, etc.). Small 3D or sculptural works that can be installed on wall surfaces may also be considered. 
  • Number of pieces:  8-12, depending on the size. Maximum size per piece: 24”x36”, with the potential to feature 1 or 2 larger pieces. Maximum weight per piece:  5 lbs 

• Installation Specifications:  Works must be framed and/or include hardware that enables hanging from a wall surface on a hook or temporary hardware.  Loppet staff will assist the artist in collaboration on hanging the show and deinstalling on agreed dates. Loppet will work with the artist on the selection of pieces appropriate for the space.

• Sales: This is an unpaid exhibition opportunity. Artists receive full visibility in a high-traffic community space and keep 100% of sales directly to buyers.
• Eligibility: Open to emerging and established artists in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.
• The Loppet is committed to supporting diverse artists that reflect the community we serve. We strongly encourage BIPOC and Queer-identified individuals to apply.

To Apply:
Send an email to art@loppet.org with the subject line “Trailhead Gallery Submission – [Artist Name]”, and include:

1. A short artist statement (up to 300 words)

2. A brief bio or resume

3. 4–8 images of your work (please include medium, and approximate size)

4. (Optional) A link to your social media, website, or online portfolio

Deadlines: Priority consideration will be given to submissions received between October 15 and November 15 2026.  Submissions after November 15 will be accepted and consideredon a rolling basis, as gallery space is available.

Selections are made by the Loppet’s Art Committee: a volunteer group of artists, community members, MPRB staff, and Loppet staff.

The Organization:

The Loppet Foundation is a non-profit whose mission is to connect people to the outdoors through experiences that grow community.  We have a unique public/private partnership with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board which allows us to operate programming, events, and community outreach for all ages and abilities, primarily based out of the Trailhead building in Theodore Wirth Park, as well as throughout the Twin Cities. 

Website: www.loppet.org 

Recent exhibits:

Paul Macharia September 2026

Kish Daniels July/August 2026

Annie Shao May/June 2026