March 16, 2026 – The Cedar Rapids Public Library seeks an artist for a special Grand Opening Exhibit in the art gallery at the new Busse Branch. The exhibit will be on display from opening day (approximately September 2026) to November 2026.
The Cedar Rapids Public Library Busse Branch will be located on 20th Avenue off Edgewood Road SW and will replace Ladd Library, which is in a leased space. It will be a bustling community hub, offering a larger selection of materials, more spaces to gather and connect, dedicated children’s program space, and more.
The gallery in the new library will be a place where local artists may display their work. Providing access to public art is part of the library’s vision of being a place which champions discovery, builds connections, and strengthens community.
Grand Opening Exhibit applications are open to all; preference will be given to local artists. Applications are also open on an ongoing basis to exhibit art in the Skywalk or Third Floor galleries at the Downtown Library.
The Busse Branch exhibit space is approximately 20 feet wide and utilizes a click rail system for hanging. Two-dimensional, low-relief media are acceptable, including drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, collage, paper/fiber/textile, and mixed media.
Interested artists should apply at CRLibrary.org/form/art-on-exhibit and check the box indicating interest in exhibiting at the new Busse Branch. Applicants should also email three to six examples of current, representational work in JPG format to events@crlibrary.org. Artist applications will be accepted through June 1.