NEW FOR 2026
$10,000 award for Best Design

JURY AND SELECTION PROCESS

All entries will be reviewed through a blind jury process to ensure a fair and impartial selection. A panel of fashion and art professionals will evaluate submissions based on originality, creativity, artistry, craftsmanship, and runway impact.

Designers are encouraged to submit detailed descriptions, sketches, and/or digital images that best represent their vision and execution.

Please note: Timeline dates are tentative and subject to change.

Timeline:

• Please email jenn.doherty@naplesart.org by August 31, 2025 to let us know if you plan to participate. A sketch is not required at this stage—just a confirmation of your intent to submit.

• Application and sketch submissions due: September 26, 2025

• Final sketches, materials and/or 1st mockup due: October 17, 2025

• Jury will make constructive comments around materials/sketches on an as needed basis to help ensure pieces are cohesive with show aesthetic. Review appointments between October 27 - 31, 2025

• Review of garment progress (must be at least 50% completed), model castings, and hair/makeup discussions between November 17 - 21, 2025

• 100% garment completion review, and photos of finished pieces between December 15 - 19, 2025

• Scene to be Seen runway fashion show event takes place Saturday, January 24, 2026

The Selection Process:

• Application Submission for jury review (one application form per artist)

• Entry Form Submission (one form per piece submitted/four pieces maximum per artist)

• Images or sketches submitted with the title of piece only – DO NOT include artist name!

• Jury committee reviews all submissions

• Notification of acceptance or decline

• Applications received after deadline will not be accepted. No exceptions.

Entry Requirements/Conditions:

• All entries must be original to the artist(s)/designer(s) submitting them.

• No more than four entries per artist.

• Artists are welcome to submit ready-to-wear designs, and do not have to design an original look for the runway.

• Artists are free to create from any medium as long as it can be worn down the runway.

• Individuals and collaborative teams may apply.

• Naples Art Institute and the Scene to be Seen committee have a right to reject a garment or accessory that does not reflect the intent of the original concept submitted on application form.

• There will be a committee approval process for all models, make-up and hair styles.

• Artists may provide models for their looks accepted in show. Names, headshots and contact information to be provided to Naples Art Institute for record. Alternatively, Naples Art Institute may help source appropriate models.

• Artists are responsible for all travel/lodging/transportation expenses related to participating in the show. A small stipend may be provided.

• ‘Naples Art Institute’ and ‘Scene to be Seen’ are trademarked. Names/Logos may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of Naples Art Institute.