April – June 2026 | Francis Parlor | Portland, Maine
The Francis has long been more than a hotel. From the intricate inlay floors of our historic Parlor to the art rails that were originally designed to display paintings in the 1880s, this building was made to hold art. Over the years, we’ve been honored to showcase and sell work from Maine artists whose pieces bring warmth and conversation into our historic spaces.
Now, we’re opening our doors once again. We invite local artists to submit work for our April–June 2026 exhibition in the Francis Parlor, with an opening celebration during Portland’s First Friday Art Walk in April.
Exhibition Details
We will select one artist to feature in the Francis Parlor for a three-month exhibition.
The selected artist will provide 5–6 cohesive, ready-to-hang pieces. We encourage artists of all backgrounds, disciplines, and perspectives to apply. Our only request is that you are either based in Maine, or that yourself or your proposed body of work demonstrates a strong connection to Maine.
Exhibition Dates: April 1 – June 30, 2026
Location: Francis Parlor, The Francis (747 Congress Street, Portland, ME)
Opening Reception: April 3rd First Friday Art Walk (Attendance is not mandatory)
Commission and sales: Artist receives 80% of the retail sale price; The Francis retains 20%. All artwork sales will be processed through the hotel. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, sold artwork will remain on display through the duration of the exhibition and will be released to the purchaser at the conclusion of the show. If shipping is required, packing and shipping are the responsibility of the artist, and associated costs will be charged to the purchaser.
How to Submit
Interested in submitting? Please complete the form linked below. Submissions must include:
- Your CV, if applicable. Emerging artists are also encouraged to apply.
- A Show Proposal (~300 words)
- Please describe the body of work you intend to exhibit, including themes, medium, scale, and how the work would respond to or complement the Francis Parlor space.
- Examples of proposed work
- Confirmation that you are able to provide 5–6 completed, ready-to-hang works by April 1, 2026
- Agreement to the Terms & Conditions outlined below
Submission Deadline: March 17
Artist Notification: March 20
We’re proud to continue supporting Maine artists and to keep this historic Parlor filled with new creative energy. We can’t wait to see what you bring to The Francis this spring.
Terms & Conditions
The following terms will apply to the selected artist. A formal consignment agreement will be signed prior to installation.
1. Submission Eligibility. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older and based in the United States. All artwork must be completed and ready for display at the time of submission.
2. Consignment Structure. Artwork will be displayed and sold on a consignment basis. The artist retains ownership of all artwork until sold. The Francis will remit 80% of the retail sale price to the artist and retain a 20% commission. Payment will be issued within 15 days of each sale.
3. Sales, Tax & Shipping. All purchasers must pay in full at the time of purchase. Sales will be processed through the hotel system and will include Maine’s 5.5% sales tax. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, sold artwork will remain on display through the duration of the exhibition and will be released to the purchaser at the conclusion of the show. If shipping is required, packing and shipping are the responsibility of the artist, and associated costs will be charged to the purchaser.
4. Installation & Removal. Artists are responsible for delivery and installation of artwork between 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM prior to April 2, 2026, unless another window of time is agreed upon. Installation must minimize disruption to hotel guests. All artwork must be properly installed using appropriate hardware and methods. Artists agree to take reasonable care to avoid damage to walls, molding, historic features, or other property of The Francis. Unsold artwork must be removed between June 28-July 1 following the end of the exhibition period.
5. Pricing. Retail prices are set by the artist. Any discounts or price adjustments must be approved by the artist in advance.
6. Risk & Liability. The Francis will take reasonable care of artwork while on display but is not liable for damage, theft, or loss unless caused by negligence or willful misconduct. Artists are strongly encouraged to carry their own insurance coverage.
7. Promotion & Image Use. By participating, the artist grants The Francis permission to photograph and use images of the artwork for promotional purposes related to the exhibition, including digital, print, and social media marketing.
8. Governing Law. This exhibition agreement will be governed in accordance with the laws of the State of Maine.
