What does kindness look like? What does respect sound like?
For more than two decades, Embracing Our Differences has invited people of all ages and backgrounds to explore these questions through art and words – and the results have moved millions. The organization is now accepting submissions for its 2026 international outdoor exhibitions, returning to both Sarasota and St. Petersburg.
The juried exhibition features 50 billboard-sized works of art, each paired with a powerful quotation. Submissions are free and open to all ages, backgrounds, and levels of experience. The deadline is July 1. Visit EmbracingOurDifferences.org for more information.
Christina Fraser, EOD’s vice president of operations, said entries are accepted in two categories – visual art and original quotations. Winners are selected by a jury, with awards including Best-in-Show (adult and student) and People’s Choice, chosen by exhibition visitors. Adult winners receive $2,000; student winners receive $2,000, shared with their school’s art or language arts program.
“We’re excited to welcome new voices and visions to help shape the next chapter of this powerful exhibition,” Fraser sakd. “Each year, the art and quotations reflect a global chorus of compassion, creativity, and connection and we can’t wait to see what 2026 will bring.”
Fraser said the 2025 exhibition received more than 10,000 submissions from 122 countries and 46 U.S. states, including work from students at over 500 schools. Since its founding 22 years ago, the exhibition has attracted more than 4.8 million visitors and continues to spark conversation and connection through creative expression.
“We’ve always believed that art has the power to change hearts and minds,” said Sarah Wertheimer, EOD’s president and CEO. “This exhibition reminds us that empathy, kindness, and respect aren’t just ideals—they’re lived experiences we can share and celebrate through creative expression.”
To submit work or learn more:
· Art submissions: EmbracingOurDifferences.org/submit-art-2026-exhibition.
· Quotation submissions: EmbracingOurDifferences.org/submit-a-quotation-2026-exhibition.
Embracing Our Differences is a nonprofit organization that employs the transformational power of art and education to promote a more inclusive community that celebrates individuality and common humanity. It accomplishes this through an annual, large-scale outdoor juried art exhibition and a comprehensive series of educational initiatives, programs and resources designed for teachers and students.
For more information about Embracing Our Differences, call 941-404-5710 or visit embracingourdifferences.org.
Submitted by Su Byron