Apply to Compete at Art & Ales: Round 2!
11.07.26 at Tidal Brewing Co.

We’re accepting artist applications for the second annual Art & Ales.

Art & Ales is back for round 2! This immersive live art event benefits the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation. This live painting competition will feature 8 local artists creating full paintings in just 5 hours, inspired by the Florida Wildlife Corridor.

New this year, artists interested in participating are invited to apply for a spot in this year's competition. We're also excited to introduce the Curator's Choice Award, presented by Roots Creative Co., bringing this year's total prize pool to $1,000 across three awards: Best in Show ($500), People's Choice ($250), and Curator's Choice ($250).

Artists, please read all event details and theme information below before submitting your application. We're looking for artists with a variety of styles to help create an exciting and diverse event.

The deadline to apply is September 9th. Artists will be notified of acceptance by September 11th.

2026 Theme: Wild Florida

Inspired by the spirit of Real Florida and the wildlife and landscapes that connect us, the theme invites artists to interpret the beauty of our state through their own artistic style.

From iconic and rare species that roam the state to crystal-clear springs, ancient lands, and hidden pockets of paradise found from coast to coast, the theme encourages artists to capture the energy of creatures that inhabit the Florida Wildlife Corridor and the places that connect us within it.

Through creativity, we celebrate the wild spaces that define Florida, while inspiring others to appreciate, protect, and connect with the places that make our state unique.

  • Each selected artist will paint live during the event, starting with a blank canvas and finishing with an original piece inspired by this year’s theme, Wild Florida.

    All work must be completed live during the event. Live painting begins at 2 PM, with brushes down at 7 PM.

    To keep the playing field fair for all artists, we’re limiting the amount of work that can be done ahead of time. Light pencil sketches or traces are perfectly fine, and we encourage you to bring reference materials. However, no paint or medium should be applied to the canvas before the event–only light pencil sketching is allowed.

  • There is no fee to apply, and all artists are welcome to submit an application. Eight artists will be selected by the event organizers.

    Selection is based on a variety of factors, including artistic quality, originality, style, and how the work contributes to creating a diverse, high-quality and engaging event experience. Submission of an application does not guarantee selection.

  • We are proud to have $1,000 up for grabs this year. The three awards are as follows:

    • Best in Show: $500 prize

    • People's Choice: $250 prize

    • Curator’s Choice: $250 prize

    Selected artists will be given a sample rubric before event day so they are aware of what the judges will be looking for.

  • Artists must bring their own:

    • 3’ x 3’ Canvas

    • Paint, brushes, tools

    • Easel or stand

    Event setup begins at 12 PM. Artists are welcome to set out a small print bin to sell prints at their painting area, but spacing is extremely limited.

    Selected artists must commit to participating on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from approximately 12:00 PM–8:30 PM (including setup and breakdown).

  • Selected participating artists will receive:

    • A feature on the event landing page

    • Individual social media spotlight from Roots Creative Co. leading up to the event

    • Opportunity to include business cards, brochures, or other freebies in the VIP bags to further promote their work

    • Invitation to sell their work at the Grove Market Holiday Event on 12/13. The vendor fee will be waived.

    Artists are welcome to promote their participation with custom materials and social posts. Roots will provide event graphics for use.

  • Finished artworks will be displayed at Tidal Brewing Co. through December 13, 2026, and listed in an online silent auction.

    • 50% of the final selling price (less any applicable payment processing fees) will be paid to the artist

    • The remaining 50% will be donated to the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation

Apply for Art & Ales

To apply, please fill out the application form on this page. Artists, please review the theme and all of the project details above before applying.

There is no fee to apply, and all artists are welcome to submit an application. Eight artists will be selected.

For questions, get in touch with us using our contact form or by emailing allisa@rootscreativeco.com.