Submissions are due March 15, 2026.

ArtsConnect invites area visual artists working in all mediums to submit art related to these poignant moments in Topeka history. 2D and 3D art may be submitted. All established and emerging visual artists are encouraged to apply. Each artist may submit up to 3 pieces for consideration.

Topeka is no stranger to hardship. Our community is built out of a mosaic of impactful, and often challenging moments. Significant events shaped this city into the place it is today. Topeka residents have overcome natural disasters including the devastating 1951 flood, and the destructive F5 tornado on June 8, 1966 which demolished more than 800 homes. Not all obstacles have been natural disasters. The evolution of Topeka has involved numerous social and political hurdles through the years. From 1956-1964 more than 3,000 predominately Black and Mexican residents were displaced in the name of "urban renewal" - destroying one of the city's most vibrant business districts. Amidst national turmoil, the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education ruling put an end to school segregation, accelerating the decades-long fight for social justice and equality for Black Americans.

The city has had its share of shining moments as well including the development of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber plant and Forbes Air Force Base in the mid-twentieth century - contributing to rapid economic and population growth much like the impact of the Oregon Trail and Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad during the previous century.

Through these challenges and victories, the city and its people have adapted, healed, and evolved time and time again. Submissions are due by March 15, 2026. There is no fee to submit your work and up to three works can be submitted by each artist. Please see the submission form for more details.