Artists needed for huge music and arts festival set to hit Oshawa this fall

A festival that’s all about arts and artists has put out the call for creators to get involved and ensure their works get some exposure. 

Recently, the City of Oshawa and the Robert McLaughlin Gallery announced that they’re partnering to present ARTBLOCK at the upcoming Convergence Music and Art Festival.

The multi-faceted public art program will exhibit works by local artists. According to the city, the works will be printed and installed on A-frame signs throughout the festival, which is slated to take place in downtown Oshawa on Sept. 21. 

The Convergence festival will feature four zones: The Nerd Alley, The Street Food Alley, an entertainment zone and a family zone. Cosplayers are encouraged to attend and compete in the inaugural Convergence Cosplay Cup, which offers a first-place prize of $500. 

Other featured events include the Ontario Tech Charity Ball Hockey Tournament, wrestling, a contemporary circus and musical performances. Nerd Alley attendees can check out comic books, toys and games and the Street Food Alley will feature vendors such as Portobello Road, Sumo Seafood, Island Grill, Masala Box, Liko’s Hawaiian BBQ and Zombie Dawgz & Conez.

There will also be a family zone, where attendees can connect with the Oshawa Museum, the Livingroom Community Art Studio, Love Child Connected and the Vital! Contemporary Circus. 

As far as ARTBLOCK goes, organizers say applications are due on or before Sunday, July 21 at 11:59 p.m.  

A selection committee will be convened to review submissions and will be comprised of city staff, RMG staff, members of the Cultural Leadership Council, and/or members of the Public Art Task Force. Artworks for the exhibition will be selected based on artistic merit, creativity and providing a complete submission.

The city says the event is part of Oshawa’s centennial celebrations.  

To learn more, click here.