There is a fleeting moment each day just before sunrise or after sunset when the world is washed in blue. Streetlights begin to glow, shadows soften, windows flicker to life, and familiar places feel transformed. Known as the “blue hour,” this in-between time carries a sense of stillness, nostalgia, mystery, and possibility.

 

ShenArts invites artists to explore this atmospheric transition through Blue Hour, a community exhibition celebrating the many emotional, symbolic, and visual interpretations of blue. From deep indigo skies and moonlit landscapes to cobalt abstractions, quiet interiors, water reflections, memory, longing, calm, or connection, artists are encouraged to interpret the theme broadly and creatively.

 

All mediums are welcome. Artists may choose to work representationally or abstractly, drawing inspiration from twilight and evening light, changing seasons, dreams, emotion, atmosphere, or the symbolic nature of the color blue itself. Whether subtle or saturated, peaceful or dramatic, Blue Hour seeks work that captures the feeling of pause—the moments between movement and rest, day and night, solitude and community.

 

We encourage both existing and newly created work for this exhibition and especially welcome imaginative interpretations of the theme. ShenArts hopes to fill the gallery with work that reflects not only the visual beauty of blue, but the emotions, stories, and sense of wonder it can hold.

 

This exhibition is open to artists of all backgrounds and experience levels. Join us as we celebrate the quiet magic of the in-between through a gallery filled with shades of blue, shared experiences, and creative connection.

​

While blue does not need to dominate the entire composition, it should play a clear and intentional role in the work.

​

Submission Requirements

• All mediums accepted and welcomed.

• Up to 3 submissions

• Artwork title(s), medium, size (unframed), year

• Short artist statement (max 250 words)

• Bio (max 150 words)

• Contact information