The Raksha Art Show is an annual community event hosted by Raksha, Inc, as a platform to raise awareness for gender-based violence by creating space for diverse voices and unique perspectives, while building community connections and promoting a culture of healing and empowerment.
This year, we invite you to join us on Saturday, April 18th at the Mimms Museum. Be the first to experience stunning original artwork by local artists while enjoying tasty hors d’oeuvres and refreshing drinks. You will also have the chance to purchase handcrafted products directly from our artists and take part in interactive art workshops and creative activities throughout the evening. So come ready to vibe, connect, create and support local art and celebrate our community!
This is a FREE community event – RSVP above to reserve your spot!
2026 Theme: The Light Within
We are very open to loose, diverse and creative interpretations of the theme or elements within the theme. The ideas listed below are offered as examples rather than boundaries for artists.
We invite artists to submit works inspired by their interpretation** of the theme “The Light Within”.
This theme explores light as:
– a steady, inner source of revelation, creativity, identity, and connection
– a dynamic, guiding force that persists through hardship, healing, and change
Together, these interpretations reflect strength, survival, and the quiet power of moving forward, even in moments of darkness.
Potential Art + Tech segment (TBC) : Inspired by the venue’s focus on technology and art, artists are encouraged to explore technology as a medium – using digital tools, electronic media and technological forms – or examine how they amplify or distort our inner light. Depending on the number of submissions that explore this intersection, we are considering dedicating a segment of the art show to technology as an extension of artistic expression. This segment will showcase artworks that reflect or explore the intersection of art and technology.
Consider becoming a Sponsor!!
Learn more about sponsorship benefits!
The Raksha Art Show provides our sponsors the opportunity to reach at least ~150 community members who will attend the art show. Sponsorship will also come with a wider digital presence via our newsletter (1600+ subscribers) and Raksha’s social media platforms with a growing follower base (2,500+ on Facebook, 1900+ Instagram and ~700 on Twitter, 550 on Linkedin).
By sponsoring the 2026 Art Show, you help support local artists, raise awareness about gender-based violence, while increasing your brand visisbility and strengthening community connections.
Background
The 2026 Raksha Art Show is the seventh in the series of Art Shows we have hosted since our first in 2018. Raksha Art Show 2018 hosted the works of 28 local artists around the themes of women’s empowerment. In 2019, we showcased artwork from 29 artists based on the theme: I Believe: Stories of Strength. In 2020, our virtual art show showcased original works of art from 25 artists on the theme of resilience. Our Opening Night for the 2023 Art Show at the Doraville Art Center was attended by over 150 community members! In 2025, the Art Show, hosted at the Avondale Art Center, showcased artworks on the theme “Leap of Faith” by 45 artists. Check out highlights from our 2025 Art Show here.
For Artists: Read Before You Register
[Guidelines/ Rules For Participation]
• No more than 2 pieces per artist.
• Please read the theme description before registering. Please remember to utilize the theme in your work and in the short description you are asked to provide on the registration form. We are open to loose, diverse and creative interpretations of the theme or elements within the theme.
• We welcome works of art across a wide range of mediums – canvas, and framed work including framed drawings, paper, mixed media, photography, digital art, pottery, ceramics, sculpture, and 3-D installations.
• Nudity allowed, but works depicting sexual acts will not be accepted.
• Blood, gore, or other violent works will not be accepted.
• Works that may be triggering or traumatizing to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and/or child abuse will not be accepted.
• Artists must be at least 18 years of age. Artists aged 16-18 years of age are required to have a parent/guardians fill out and sign the parental consent section on the registration form.
• Raksha staff reserves the right to accept or reject artwork based on the rules and guidelines and ask for modifications when required.
• All submissions must be sent to ARTSHOW@RAKSHA.ORG.
• Please include two clear pictures, name and short description of work when you register.
• All registrations must be in by Sunday March 29, 2026 at 11:59pm.
• The deadline for Submission of Final Artwork Pictures for approval is April 5, 2026 at 11:59pm.
• The curation team will make final selections based on the artwork pics submitted, required details of artwork in the registration form, alignment with theme and other considerations.
• Selected Artists will be emailed a contract to sign. The deadline of submitting signed contracts is Sunday April 12, 2026 by 11:59pm.
• Depending on the size, weight and type of installations or sculptures, artists may be required to provide or arrange for any specialized hanging or installation hardware not available through Raksha or the venue. Very large and heavy canvas or mixed media artwork may be displayed on easels or tables.
• Drop off Dates: Between Monday, April 13 and Thursday April 16, 2026. Selected artists will need to drop off their approved and completed artwork during time slots that will be communicated to them.
• Pick up dates for unsold art:
- 8pm – 9pm on Saturday, April 18, 2026
- 11am – 5pm on Sunday April 19, 2026