The Cedar Rapids Public Library is seeking an artist for a special Grand Opening Exhibit at the new Busse Branch art gallery. The exhibit will be on display from approximately September 2026 to November 2026.
The new Busse Branch, located on 20th Avenue off Edgewood Road SW, will replace the Ladd Library and is envisioned as a bustling community hub with a larger selection of materials, more gathering spaces, and a dedicated children’s program area. The gallery space aligns with the library’s vision of championing discovery, building connections, and strengthening the community by providing access to public art.
The Busse Branch exhibit space is about 20 feet wide and uses a click rail system for hanging. Acceptable media include two-dimensional, low-relief works such as drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, collage, paper/fiber/textile, and mixed media.
Applications for the Grand Opening Exhibit are open to all artists, though preference will be given to local artists. Ongoing applications are also accepted to exhibit work in the Skywalk or Third Floor galleries at the Downtown Library.
Interested artists can apply at CRLibrary.org/form/art-on-exhibit and should indicate their interest in the Busse Branch exhibit. Applicants must also email three to six examples of current, representational work in JPG format to [email protected]. Applications will be accepted through June 1.
