2026 Wings Over Solano Air Show

Description

In a landmark collaboration, The Kelly is proud to partner with the Wings Over Solano Air Show on April 25 - 26, 2026 to present a unique art exhibition celebrating "America 250." The first of its kind, this showcase will be a highlight of the air show, taking place in the high-traffic, high-visibility STEAM area of Hangar 46 at Travis Air Force Base.

We invite artists to submit works that capture the spirit of "America 250," with a special focus on the evolution of the Air Force's cutting-edge technology, iconic aircraft, and the dedicated service members and their families who have been the backbone of this institution throughout its history.

We encourage you to draw inspiration from the rich tapestry of life at Travis Air Force Base and the Air Force at large. Your artwork can explore a range of subjects, from the architectural beauty of its buildings and monuments to the powerful presence of its vehicles and aircraft. We are also seeking pieces that offer a glimpse into the daily lives, activities, and unwavering spirit of the airmen and their families. This is a wonderful opportunity to have your work seen by a large and appreciative audience.

** No Entry or Submission Fees | Free to Apply and Participate **
Please note that Travis Air Force Base cannot sell or promote the sale of artwork, so artworks will be For Display only.

----------- IMPORTANT DATES ------------

APPLICATIONS DUE:
Wednesday, April 8th

NOTIFICATIONS:
Artists will be notified by e-mail no later than April 15, 2026 of whether and/or which artworks have been accepted.

ARTWORK DELIVERY:
Artwork must be received by April 22, 2026.

EXHIBIT AT AIR SHOW:
April 26 & 27, 2026

ARTWORK PICKUP:
Either at the end of the air show on April 26th at 17:00 / 5:00PM or April 27, 2026.

----------- APPLICATION GUIDELINES ------------

ELIGIBILITY:
Open to civilians, military personnel, military veterans, and their families of at least 18 years of age.

ARTWORK:
- Artwork cannot be copied from copyrighted materials.
- Two-dimensional artworks should be in traditional mediums, such as oil, acrylic, watercolors, pastels, gouache, charcoal, etc.
- Artworks should be representational, though various styles (realistic, impressionistic, expressionistic, etc.) are accepted.
- Artwork should be at least 11" x 14" but no more than 40"x60" in size.

APPLYING:
Space is very limited in this show, and entries will be juried. Each artist may submit up to two (2) entries. Submit a photo of each entry and a 75 to 100-word description per entry explaining why you believe your entry represents the theme of “America 250.” This description may be displayed next to your artwork on site during the exhibition as well. Please send photos, descriptions, application form, and exhibition agreement to Exhibits@TheKelly.org or apply online at https://thekelly.org/exhibitions/application/ by April 8, 2026.

NOTIFICATION:
Artists will be notified of the selected items for this exhibition by email no later than April 15, 2026. If you intend to ship your artwork, we will provide shipping details in our acceptance email.

DELIVERY:
Art and display easels should be delivered to the Travis Air Force Base (Coordination to take place with artist) on or before April 22, 2026. We will inform accepted artists with further instructions upon notification.

PICK UP:
All artwork must be picked up by the artist or an authorized person on the artist’s behalf either after the air show on April 26 at 17:00 / 5:00PM or April 27, 2026.

----------- AWARDS ------------
(Travis AFB cannot provide nor associate with monetary awards, but winners will be awarded with certificates of excellence.)

- The Kelly’s Choice Award: Chosen by The Kelly’s juror(s).
- Commander’s Choice Award: Chosen by select commanders on Travis AFB.
- Patron’s Choice Award: Visiting patrons will vote for their choice over the course of the exhibition.
- The Civic Canvas Award: Chosen by a Civic Leader juror(s).

**** Please visit our website for more information and to apply online. ****