NCCCIAP

Artists are invited to submit original T-shirt designs for consideration. Designs should align with the conference theme and meet the design parameters outlined in this call.

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Submitted artwork must be the artist's original work and suitable for reproduction on conference merchandise. Designs should be created with one- or two-color printing in mind and include the required conference information as outlined in the call guidelines.

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Please complete sections of this application form and upload the requested design files and supporting materials. Submission does not guarantee selection. Finalists and selected artists will be notified following the review process.

We look forward to seeing your designs and creative interpretations of this year's theme!

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Theme:

IRON WORKS: Work Smarter, Not Harder

 

Historically, neighborhoods were created around ironworks, industrial spaces responsible for iron production. People were not only dependent on the job that was provided by the ironworks, but also the programs, support, and community that were centered around the material. At Sloss Furnaces National Historical Landmark, iron casting has transformed from a large-scale, industrial operation, to a smaller, education-based model, yet the community that has been built around the material has remained.

It is within this community and at this conference that we find the ability to “work smarter, not harder.” Working in this manner doesn’t negate the effort, skill, or dedication put into a task or goal, nor is it about cutting corners. It could mean something different for everyone. Perhaps it’s about being more efficient in your labor, prioritizing and delegating tasks. Or it could be employing new technologies, methods, or processes to maximize time or minimize physical exertion. Maybe it is about leaning on your community to share the labor or their experience.

​It is our hope that the programming at the 2027 NCCCIAP connects you with a community of iron casters and artists that you can call on for knowledge, expertise, inspiration, or to just lighten the load. 

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Deadline: September 1, 2026 at 11:59 PM

 

Details: 

• Designs should reflect the theme, "Iron Works"

• Incorporate the theme title text "Iron Works", and encouraged to include the subheading "work smarter, not harder"

• Include the conference title or acronym text (NCCCIAP)

• Submitted designs must be suitable for printing in one or two colors. Artists may also recommend a shirt color that best supports their design (see comfort colors 1717 for shirt color options)

• Design submissions may be submitted as either print-ready digital artwork or concept sketches. Conceptual submissions are encouraged and do not need to be production-ready. NCCCIAP reserves the right to refine selected designs as needed for printing and production, while making every effort to preserve the artist's vision and communicate any significant changes.

Timeline:

• Call Opens - June 25, 2026

• Deadline - September 1, 2026

• Notified - October 1, 2026

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Designs will be reviewed by the standing committee members, Conference Chair, and the Sloss Metal Arts Director.​

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DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 1, 2026

Questions? Email us at NCCCIAP@gmail.com​​

Did you cast, create, or perform work at the 2025 NCCCIAP? We want to see it! 

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The National Cast Iron Conference is compiling a comprehensive digital catalog of finished works created during the 2025 National Conference on Contemporary Cast Iron Art and Practices (NCCCIAP).

 

If you cast work at the conference, we invite you to submit documentation of your completed piece(s) to be considered for inclusion. This digital catalog will celebrate the range, creativity, and craftsmanship of the artists who contributed to this year’s conference.

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​Eligibility: Work must have been primarily created, cast, and/or performed at the 2025 NCCCIAP at Sloss Furnaces. 

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DEADLINE: Midnight August 1, 2025

*missed the deadline, but still want to include work? Please email us at NCCCIAP@gmail.com

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