The Upstate Artists Guild (UAG) and the Hudson Valley Writers Guild (HVWG) are thrilled to announce the return of Poetic License, an annual exhibit where artists create original works in response to poetry written by local writers. This fall, Poetic License 2026 show will be on display in Albany and we’re inviting artists to be part of this unique creative collaboration.
Now in its fifth year, Poetic License brings together artists and poets in a shared celebration of inspiration, storytelling, and visual expression. Artists select from a curated list of poems provided by HVWG and create works in any medium that reflect or respond to those words.
Each year, the exhibit features dozens of striking visual interpretations—some literal, others abstract, all deeply personal. In 2025, 22 poems inspired 30 pieces of visual art hung on the walls of the Fish Market & the Honest Weight Food Co-op. In 2026, we hope to see even more artists join the conversation.
This call is open to current and former UAG members working in any medium—painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, digital art, and more. Artwork must be display-ready and created within the past two years.
Poems available for selection: August 15 – September 30, 2026
Artwork submission deadline: September 30, 2026
Poetic License Exhibit: Date TBA
Opening reception, poetry readings, and hands-on collage workshops will accompany this year’s exhibit.
Visit poeticlicensealbany.com/poems to choose a poem that inspires you.
Create your artwork in response to that poem.
By midnight on September 30, email your submission to info@upstateartistsguild.org, including:
Artist contact information
Title, medium, size, and price of your work
Poem title you responded to
Payment app info (if applicable)
A short artist bio (1–2 pages)
A clear photo of your finished piece
There is no entry fee, and 100% of artwork sales go directly to the artist.
This is more than an art show—it’s a vibrant, evolving community project. Poetic License invites us to slow down, to listen deeply, and to reflect creatively on the written word. It’s a chance to share your perspective, stretch your artistic voice, and connect with other artists and writers across the Capital Region.
We hope you’ll join us.
Questions?
Contact us at info@upstateartistsguild.org with any questions or to make special arrangements.
Follow us for updates at upstateartistsguild.org and poeticlicensealbany.com.