Celebrating the Legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
AFRICAN ROOTS/AMERICAN FRUITS
Remember 1526 - the first enslaved Africans arrived in the U. S. and first African slave revolt.
NCA MLK COMMEMORATIVE ART EXHIBITION
THE MLK JR. EXHIBITION COUNCIL
The New Orleans Martin Luther King Jr. Exhibition Council (MLKEC) provides administrative and financial support for the annual National Conference of Artists, Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Art Exhibition and related activities.
WHAT WE DO
The NCA MLK Exhibition and related activities celebrate the life and legacy of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Civil Rights Movement, and those working to further peace and human understanding. Through the arts, we give recognition to the people around the world who work tirelessly for peace, justice, and responsible environmental cohabitation. We develop annual art displays, receptions, lectures, research tours, and webinars will reflect the theme activities based on one of Dr. King’s writings, speeches, or sermons. The exhibition offers diverse opportunities for local and national students, first-time or infrequent exhibitors, and established artists to receive recognition and sell their artwork. We provide a host of cultural, educational, and entrepreneurial opportunities. Visiting the MLK exhibition is a tradition for some people and one of the highlights of New Orleans’ Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday week of activities.
JURIED ART EXHIBITION
- We will accept applications only through OnlineJuriedShows.com.
- Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
- No applications will be accepted after the October 15, 2025, deadline.
- Artwork should convey the artist’s interpretation of the exhibition theme, Love in Action: African Roots/ American Fruits.
- Art submitted for consideration must be created within the last five years.
- Art dimensions must be greater than 12 inches on any side and not more than 48 inches wide.
- Only original artwork will be accepted, no reproductions or enhanced giclée.
- The artist or designated representative has to install three-dimensional artwork weighing more than 30 pounds.
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS' ART CONTEST
Ninth through twelfth grade students in Jefferson, Orleans, Saint Bernard, and Saint Tammany Parishes are eligible for this contest. The amount of children's work that best portray the exhibition theme, Love in Action: African Roots/American Fruits, will be chosen based on space availability. The best artwork in the exhibition will receive first place, second place, and third place honors.