HCC Art Galleries Open Calls

August 21 - November 6, 2025

Opening Reception: Thursday, August 21, 5 - 8 p.m.

What does it mean to create art that accepts the reality of loss?

After last year’s unprecedented back-to-back storms—Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton—HCC Art Galleries invites Florida-based artists and/or activists to contribute to In Case of Flood, a group show that embraces uncertainty, risk, community and creative adaptation.

Curated by Jessi Sherbet, this exhibition challenges artists to create work that is intentionally vulnerable to weather, water and time. Submissions may be visual, conceptual or functional, but all must agree on one essential condition: in the event of an emergency or hurricane evacuation, these works will not be prioritized for preservation. They will be left behind, should floodwaters rise or hurricane winds return, and any salvageable materials will be redistributed for mutual aid.

Creatives of all disciplines are eligible but must be a resident in the state of Florida. Applicants must also be willing to accept the possibility—and reality—that their work may be damaged or lost.

Eligible creatives are invited to submit up to two (2) artworks completed within the last two years (2023-2025) for consideration through this online application, which will be used for the online curatorial process. 

Possible formats include (but are not limited to):

• Visually striking functional and/or conceptual artwork on salvaged, Hurricane-related materials (e.g. 2D or 3D works using plywood, tarps, cardboard, etc.). 

• Sculptures using hurricane-preparedness related items such as: water bottles, flotation devices, canned goods, solar panels, flashlights, candles, batteries, etc. Note: if using hurricane-related items in your work, please acknowledge that it may be used for redistribution to the community. 

• Zines, posters, or guides addressing mutual aid, environmental disaster, hurricane preparedness, etc. 

• Installations concerning the theme of impermanence, such as through decay, erosion or temporary repurposing. 

Reference Room in the Dale Mabry Campus Learning Resource Center. Located just outside the main gallery, this 30-foot wall is situated in a well-trafficked student study area. It is best suited for small-scale solo exhibitions (particularly 2D art) and is available during the academic year (fall and spring semesters). While some 3D work can be accepted in this space, capacity is limited.

Gallery114 Ybor City Campus. A large, flexible gallery space located in the college’s Performing Arts Building, Gallery114 is ideal for group exhibitions and larger installations. The space features more than 80 feet of combined wall space and ceiling heights ranging from 8 to over 20 feet. Pop-up exhibitions at Gallery114 are available during the summer semester only.