DuPont Nature Center seeks environmental art submissions

The DuPont Nature Center at Mispillion Harbor Reserve invites artists of all ages and abilities to submit original artwork for its inaugural environmental art showcase beginning Wednesday, April 1, when the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control’s Delaware Bay educational facility opens for its 2026 season.

Artists can submit their work for any of three artistic themes, which will rotate every two months at the nature center. Shoreline Serenity will be showcased April through May, with Delaware Bay Connections in June and July, and Unique Shapes, Sizes and Colors in August and September.

Submissions for each theme will close one month prior to the theme’s showcase: Sunday, March 1; Friday, May 1; and Wednesday, July 1, respectively.

Eligible artwork can be in almost any medium, from sculpture to painting to photography and more, but it must adhere to the theme and size restrictions to have a chance at selection for the gallery. If selected, an artist’s work will be on display at the DNC during the corresponding theme’s exhibit period.

DNREC educator and DNC Manager Patrick Ruhl said he expects the art showcase to help connect visitors to the center and its Delaware Bayshore environment. “People from all over the state, region and even the world love coming here to learn more about nature, especially the habitat that supports the world-renowned shorebird migration each spring,” Ruhl said. “The artwork chosen for display will deepen the connection between the DuPont Nature Center and our visitors, and give us all a greater appreciation of our wonderful Delaware Bay habitat and the wildlife who thrive from its existence.”

To learn more or apply, go to de.gov/dnc.