The goals of inaugural Lazy Daze Emerging Artist Showcase:  

• Celebrate and elevate emerging talent in the Triangle’s arts community.
• Provide early-career artists with access to a high-quality, juried festival experience.
• Foster meaningful connections between new artists, established professionals, and the public.
• Inspire the next generation of creators to engage with the region’s vibrant arts scene.

Looking Ahead

• The Lazy Daze Emerging Artist Showcase is designed to grow beyond the 50th anniversary celebration supporting the Triangle’s next generation of artists for years to come.
• Join us in celebrating 50 years of Lazy Daze and help us shape the next 50 years of art in our community.

Eligibility

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Residency: Must reside in Wake, Chatham, Durham, Orange, or Johnston County.
• Experience: Artists should be in the early stages of their professional art career and have limited prior festival or gallery experience.
• Original Work: All artwork must be original and created by the artist. No reproductions, kits, or mass-produced items are permitted.
• Age: Applicants must be 18 years or older.
• Availability: Must be able to attend and staff their booth during all festival hours (Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.).

Note: Artists who have previously exhibited in the Lazy Daze or Spring Daze Arts & Crafts Festivals as juried artists are not eligible for this program.

Each selected Emerging Artist will receive:

• Free 10’x10’ booth space at the Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival.
• Optional tent provided by the festival (upon request). Artists may also use their own 10’x10’ setup.
• Feature promotion on Lazy Daze social media, festival website, and printed materials.
• Inclusion in the official event map and on-site signage highlighting the Emerging Artist Showcase area.
• Inclusion in festival press releases and promotional campaigns.
• Opportunities for on-site interviews or artist spotlights with local media partners.
• Mentorship opportunities and access to guidance from experienced festival artists and staff.
• Professional development resources pre and post event (topics may include booth setup, pricing, or marketing tips).

Selected artists will:

• Provide all display materials, tables, and any additional setup items needed for the booth. (A 10x10 tent may be provided upon request)
• Staff their booth for the full duration of the event.
• Manage all sales transactions, including handling taxes.
• Comply with all festival policies, setup and teardown schedules, and safety regulations.

Participating artists will be invited to:

• Provide feedback on their experience to help shape future programs.
• Be featured in a follow-up “Emerging Artist Alumni” gallery on the festival website.
• Connect with arts partners and professional mentors through post-festival networking events.

Application Process

Application Opens: December 5, 2025 
Application Deadline: March 6, 2026 
Notification of Acceptance: April 2026 

Application is available on Zapplication and through the Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival website at carync.gov/lazydaze. Artists should select Emerging Artist Showcase as their medium category.  
 
Application Materials 

Applicants are asked to provide: 

All applications will be reviewed by our Lazy Daze panel of jurors consisting of professional artists, arts administrators, and Lazy Daze organizers. Selection will be based on originality, craftsmanship, and potential for growth. Emerging Artists are not judged blind and may include identifying information in their photos, bio, and artist statement.