GIG 2026 Call For Visual Artists
Updates on GIG 2026 and the art of Michigan music
GIG 2026 - Call For Visual Artists
We are looking for graphic artists and photographers involved with the music scene in Michigan to show their work at GIG - The Art of Michigan Music Visual Experience 2026. If you are interested, please send us your information using this form:
Submissions run until March 1, 2026
Selected visual artists will show between one and three pieces during GIG 2026, which will be held on Friday, July 24, and Saturday, July 25, as part of the city’s beloved Sounds & Sights Festival, presented by Rick Taylor | Reinhart Realtors
GIG 2026 Featured Artist - Jonathan Doyle
We are thrilled to announce that our featured visual artist for 2026 is Jonathan Doyle. His work calls to mind the great poster artists of the ‘60s/’70s with flowing lines and iconic imagery. If you’ve been to a Manchester Underground show, then you know the power and beauty of his art. Jonathan is currently working on our GIG 2026 poster. We can’t wait to see it. In the meantime, be sure to check out his website.
Greater Detroit Music Census starts on Feb 3!
If you are within 75 miles of Detroit and part of the music community, then the Greater Detroit Music Census is looking for your input. The census is open to visual artists, musicians, venue staff, recording studio staff, booking agents, music educators, and essentially everyone who is involved in the music community of Detroit. The census will provide an insightful look into what makes our music scene shine and where it could use some work. Hosted by the Detroit Music Collective, the census runs from Feb 3 through March 3.
More From Mitten Music
Mitten Music released the excellent interviews they did with some of the photographers at GIG 2025. They also talked with the guys in Carbon Decoy! Be sure to subscribe to their podcast so you won’t miss all their great interviews, including upcoming talks with some of the graphic designers at GIG!
SPONSORS NEEDED!
Fundraising is ongoing. Our goal is to be able to provide a small stipend to each visual artist at the show this year. If you, your business, or your employer is interested, please email me for details (info@gigartmich.org)
Donations of any level are welcome. Help us showcase the visual artists in the Michigan music scene. Donate today!
Don’t Miss This!
At GIG - The Art of Michigan Music Foundation, we want to amplify the visual art of Michigan music. Here are some news, events, and happenings that you might dig. If you are a Michigan visual artist involved in the music community, shoot us your events and news to share - email us at info@gigartmich.org
Call For Artists - Chelsea Art Alley
Geek Brush Studio in Chelsea is spearheading an effort with the city to turn the alley between 105 and 107 Main Street into the Chelsea Art Gallery. They are currently seeking artist submissions to display in this new outdoor art space. Submissions are due by April 1, 2026.
Call For Artists - Sanctuary Detroit
Sanctuary Detroit is opening a new music and art space. They are currently seeking artists to create murals. Please send your proposals or examples of your work to miranda@tsdmaac.org for more information and review! Submissions open until February 28th, 2026; artists will be notified in the first week of March.
Brian Sheehan
The captivating imagery of LGRDMN graces the digital poster for the upcoming CAGLIOSTRO FOREVER on March 6 and 7th. Tickets are available.
Logan Belz
Wild poster art by Logan Belz
Terry Jones - Sensorium Arts
Had the pleasure of running into Terry at Jeff Fest 5. Check out his fabulous photos on Sensorium Arts
Coe Lacy
Each year, the Jammies awards from WYCE in Grand Rapids feature the outstanding art of Coe Lacy.
Congratulations to Tyree Guyton
The Kresge Foundation has recognized Tyree Guyton as its 2026 Eminent Artist. For decades, Tyree has been transforming his neighborhood into an outdoor art extravaganza known as The Heidelberg Project. Read the full story.
You NEED a GIG t-shirt and poster!!
We’ve got GIG - The Art of Michigan Music 2025 t-shirts and posters for sale for basically nothing but postage.
Support GIG - The Art of Michigan Music Foundation
Our Mission
GIG - The Art of Michigan Music Foundation celebrates and amplifies Michigan’s rich music culture by highlighting the visual artists who shape its creative identity. Through exhibitions, workshops, and live events, we provide a platform for photographers, graphic designers, and videographers who craft concert posters, album art, band t-shirts, logos, and music videos—essential visual elements that elevate and support Michigan’s vibrant music community.
GIG - The Art of Michigan Music Foundation is committed to preserving and enriching Michigan’s rich musical heritage while nurturing its current and future generations of visual artists.
Our Vision
We envision a future where Michigan-based visual artists who contribute to the music community are celebrated and supported. Our long-term goal is to raise funds to provide stipends for artists participating in our annual showcase, GIG - The Art of Michigan Music. By alleviating the financial barriers of art show participation, we aim to create a platform that not only highlights their work but also offers meaningful opportunities for them to connect with the public and sell their creations.
