Call for Artists
Commemorative Print Celebrating New U.S. Citizens
Presented by Berardi Immigration Law, Art Resource, and Mirabo Press

Art Resource invites Western New York artists to propose an original work of art celebrating the
moment an individual achieves permanent immigration status or becomes a United States
citizen.

The selected design will be developed into a limited-edition screenprint in collaboration with
Mirabo Press. Berardi Immigration Law will present the finished, framed prints to clients as a
meaningful acknowledgment of their perseverance, accomplishment, and new beginning.
Many of Berardi Immigration Law’s clients come to the United States from around the world and
spend years navigating the immigration process. The finished artwork should recognize the
time, determination, financial investment, and hope involved in reaching this important
milestone.

Project Theme
Artists are invited to create a work inspired by the American Dream, and the belief that people
can build a meaningful life through hope, opportunity, determination, and hard work.
The proposed artwork should also incorporate Buffalo, either subtly or prominently. Artists may
consider Buffalo’s identity as the City of Good Neighbors, its architecture, landscape, history,
symbols, communities, or spirit of welcome and generosity.

Additional themes may include:
● Belonging and home
● Hope, possibility, and new beginnings
● Unity across cultures and experiences
● Freedom and opportunity
● Perseverance and personal achievement
● The meaning of becoming an American
● The contributions immigrants make to Buffalo and the larger American story

Proposals do not need to include traditional patriotic imagery. Artists are encouraged to interpret
the American Dream and Buffalo’s identity in a thoughtful, contemporary, inclusive, and personal
way.

The completed work should feel celebratory, uplifting, and appropriate for display in a home.

Artistic and Technical Approach
Because the final work will be produced as a screenprint, proposals should lend themselves to
strong graphic imagery and clear layers of color.
The submitted proposal does not need to be a fully resolved production design. The selected
artist will work with Rachel Shelton and the team at Mirabo Press from the beginning of the
image-building process to refine the composition, develop the color layers, and prepare the
work for screenprinting.
Previous screenprinting experience is not required. Artists should be open to a collaborative
process that preserves their original vision while responding to the possibilities of the medium.

Selected Artist
The selected artist will receive a $1,000 commission stipend.
The final design will be produced by Mirabo Press as an edition of 25 screenprints measuring
approximately 11 × 14 inches.

Submission Requirements
Please submit:
1. A preliminary sketch or visual proposal
The proposal should communicate the composition, primary imagery, visual direction,
anticipated use of color, and the way Buffalo will be incorporated into the design.
2. A brief concept description
In 250 words or fewer, describe the proposed artwork, its relationship to the American
Dream, and how it celebrates the experience of achieving permanent immigration status
or becoming a United States citizen.
3. Three to five examples of previous work
4. A brief artist biography
Approximately 150 words or fewer.
5. Contact information
Include your name, email address, telephone number, and website or social media
account, when applicable.

Selection Process
Proposals will be reviewed by representatives from Berardi Immigration Law, with input from Art
Resource and Mirabo Press.

Submissions will be considered based on:
● Strength and originality of the concept
● Connection to the American Dream
● Meaningful incorporation of Buffalo
● Inclusivity and emotional resonance
● Suitability for display in a home
● Strength of the proposed graphic imagery
● Potential for development through clear color layers
● Openness to collaboration with Mirabo Press

One artist will be selected.

Project Timeline
Call opens: August 12, 2026
Submission deadline: September 7, 2026
Artist selected: September 21, 2026
Design development and printing: October 1 - 20, 2026

Artist Rights and Project Use
The selected artist will retain copyright to the original artwork. Berardi Immigration Law will
receive an edition of 25 physical prints to present to its clients.

Berardi Immigration Law, Art Resource, and Mirabo Press may photograph and share the artist,
artwork, and production process for project-related publicity, websites, newsletters, social
media, educational materials, and press coverage. The artist will be credited whenever the work
is reproduced.

Any additional production or commercial use of the design would require the artist’s permission.

How to Apply
Submit all materials by August 29th via: https://form.jotform.com/262114733271046

There is no fee to apply.

Questions may be directed to:
Emily Tucker
Co-Director, Art Resource
emily@artresourceny.com
716-249-132