Submit an Exhibition Proposal
Exhibits USA partners with curators, artists, and institutions to develop traveling exhibitions that expand access, engage communities, and tour successfully.
Request for Exhibition Proposals
Exhibits USA® develops and tours museum-quality traveling arts and humanities exhibitions that are both thematically strong, resonate with a broad audience, and are designed with real-world touring in mind.
We welcome proposals that align with our mission to expand access to the arts and foster community engagement across diverse audiences.
What Makes a Strong Traveling Exhibition
Successful traveling exhibitions balance curatorial vision, visual impact, audience engagement, and logistical feasibility.
Strong proposals typically:
- Present a clear, compelling curatorial concept or theme
- Demonstrate relevance to contemporary audiences and communities
- Offer opportunities for interpretation, education, and public programming
- Include visually engaging works accessible to a broad audience
- Are designed for safe, efficient travel over multiple years
The most successful exhibitions combine strong ideas with practical touring design—making them adaptable across a wide range of venues.
Designing for Audience & Impact
Exhibits USA exhibitions often serve broad adult and “lifelong learner” audiences, while also engaging students and families. At their core, successful exhibitions create meaningful connections between ideas, objects, and communities.
When developing your proposal, consider:
- Who is the primary audience?
- How will visitors connect with the exhibition’s themes?
- What conversations or learning opportunities might it inspire?
Proposals that clearly define audience and impact are more likely to resonate across our national network.
Ideal Exhibition Size and Format
To support a wide range of venues, Exhibits USA exhibitions are designed for flexibility and efficiency.
Ideal exhibitions typically:
- Occupy 250 linear/2,000 square feet or less.
- Include 25–60 works or objects.
- Require moderate security and environmental controls.
- Ship via common carrier or van line.
- Install using standard gallery equipment.
Exhibitions that can adapt to different gallery layouts and resources tend to have the strongest touring potential.
Proposal Guidelines
Exhibits USA reviews proposals on a rolling basis. Submissions should include:
- A one-page curatorial statement outlining the concept, theme, and scope.
- A preliminary checklist of 10–15 sample works, including:
- Artist name
- Title
- Medium
- Dimensions
- Current location and shipping origin.
- Images shared via link or email (attachments limited to 7 MB).
Additional requirements:
- All work must already exist and be available for tour.
- Objects must be stable and suitable for travel for at least three years.
- Work may not be sold during the tour.
Tips for a Successful Proposal
A strong proposal clearly communicates not just what you want to present, but why it matters, who it serves, and how it will travel.
The most compelling proposals demonstrate:
- A focused curatorial narrative that connects all works.
- Thoughtful selection of artists and objects that support the theme.
- Awareness of installation, shipping, and touring logistics.
- Clear alignment between concept, audience, and feasibility.
When these elements come together, a proposal becomes a viable traveling exhibition—and a strong candidate for partnership.
Submit Your Proposal
Send your proposal or questions via email or physical mail.
Email Submission
proposals@maaa.org
Physical Mail
M-AAA, c/o EUSA Proposals
2018 Baltimore Ave., Kansas City, MO 64108
Additional Resources
Security Terms
Know the key security requirements.
Shipping Terms
Review shipping terms and rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get quick answers to common questions.