Show Overview

Only the first 85 artists will be accepted, so apply early to make sure you get in.

Each January, Valkarie Gallery draws visitors with its popular theme of renewal. This year, the WCACO Member Show will build on that tradition with:

First Light

Imagine the glow on the horizon New Year’s Day. Then comes the burst of light that pierces the frosty air at sunrise. It’s a spark, an awakening, new growth. What idea does that first glimpse reveal? What new beginning do you see for the year ahead? It might be hopeful, quiet, or unexpected. 

 

Bring us your interpretation of First Light in any medium, through color, texture, story, emotion, or imagination.

 

Valkarie will host the show throughout the gallery. The main space is large and open, while the side gallery is more intimate. Both have great lighting and draw people into conversation about the art.

 

The West Metro Chamber of Commerce is planning a ribbon cutting for the opening, so in addition to Valkarie’s usual crowd, neighbors from Bow Mar, Lakewood, and across Jefferson County are invited.

 

We hope First Light inspires you to create a new piece of art that will carry you through 2027. Previously made work is welcome, too. If something in your closet already speaks to First Light, we’d love to see it.

 

Where will the light lead you?

 

Submit your work at the link below.

 

Important Dates

​

• Submission Deadline
  Tuesday, December 1, 2026 at 11:59 PM Mountain Time, or when 85 artists have been accepted, whichever comes first.
  Marketing consideration: Submit by Saturday, November 21, 2026 to have your artwork considered for promotional materials.

• Artwork Drop-Off
  Sunday, January 3, 2027 | 12:00 - 2:00 PM
  - If you can’t make this time, please contact Brandy Walega at brandywalega@gmail.com to make alternative drop-off arrangements.
  - If you need to ship your work, please contact Leslie Lefferdink at leslie.lefferdink.art@gmail.com for the shipping address. Make sure to include reusable packaging and a prepaid return shipping label. Please remember that shipping can be delayed at this time of year.
  - All pieces must be received by 2:00 PM on Sunday, January 3, 2027.

• Installation (Team Only)
  Sunday, January 3, 2027 | 2:00 PM

• Exhibition Dates
  January 4 – January 31, 2027

• Gallery Hours
  Thursday 4:00 - 9:30 PM
  Friday 4:00 - 8:30 PM
  Saturday 12:00 - 6:00 PM
  Sunday 12:00 - 5:00 PM

• Gallery Location
  445 S Saulsbury St
  Lakewood, CO 80226
  720-813-2131

• Opening Reception
  Saturday, January 9, 2027 | 5:00 – 8:30 PM (Second Saturday)

• Artist Conversations & Closing Reception
  Sunday, January 31, 2027 | 1:30 – 3:30 PM

• Artwork Pick-Up
  Sunday, January 31, 2027 | 3:30 – 4:00 PM
  If you can’t attend, please arrange for someone to pick up your work for you.
   

Submission Fee

• $30 via Zelle (wcacotreasury1@gmail.com)
  OR

• $30 by check payable to WCACO
  Mail to:
  Lyndy Bush, WCACO Treasurer
  6243 Laguna Cir
  Highlands Ranch, CO 80130

 

Commission & Sales

• 70% to the artist / 30% to the gallery

• Payment for sold work will be issued by March 31, 2027

 

Application Requirements

This is a non-juried exhibition open to WCACO members. Bring us your interpretation of First Light. New and previously made work are welcome.

• One artwork per member

• Only the first 85 submissions will be accepted

• No submissions accepted after December 1, 2026

 

Artwork Requirements

• Submitted work should be appropriate for a general audience. This doesn’t mean only safe or easy subjects. If you’re not sure if your piece fits, please ask before you decide not to enter it. Send a photo to exhibitions@wcaco.org. We’d rather see it than miss it.

• Maximum size (2D): 30" on the longest side (including frame)

• All 2D work must be wired with D-rings and hanging wire

• Place name, phone number, and title on the back of your artwork 

• Limited space for 3D work

  • Eight pedestals available (first come, first served)

• Artist statement is optional (300 characters maximum)

  • Artist statements will be in a binder that’s available to browse at the show

 

How to Participate

1. Mark all important dates

2. Submit your payment

3. Click here to complete the submission form

4. Invite friends and family

5. Get ready for a fantastic opening!

 

Questions?

Contact: Patty Palko at exhibitions@wcaco.org
Call/Text: 303-619-3940

 

Your Exhibition Team

Patty Palko

Debbie Bentley
Patty Fabian
Veronica Herrera

Kimberly Jones
Leslie Lefferdink
Brandy Walega

Michelle Wolins

Anne Zelenka