The Charleston Symphony Orchestra League (CSOL) invites South Carolina artists to submit their original work for inclusion in the Art Serenade Auction—a juried art sale taking place during this year’s most dynamic celebration of music and visual art.
Whether you’re an emerging or established artist, this is a chance to share your work with a diverse audience, gain meaningful visibility, and directly support Charleston’s classical music community.
About the Auction
The Art Serenade Auction is a curated showcase of visual art to be displayed throughout the event space during the CSOL Art Serenade. Bids will be placed digitally via GiveSmart, a mobile auction platform, using individual QR codes displayed with each piece.
Each work will be prominently featured and available for attendees to view and purchase. Artists will receive 50% of the final sale price, with the remaining 50% donated to CSOL to support classical music education and community outreach programs.
Submission Guidelines
We’re looking for bold & beautiful works of art. Here’s what to know before submitting:
Who Can Submit:
- Artists based in South Carolina (any medium or discipline)
- Artists do not need to be present at the event to participate
What to Submit:
- Up to 3 original works
- You may submit a print
- Acceptable mediums include painting, mixed media, photography, textile art, sculpture, or small installations
- Works must be ready for display (framed, wired, or suitable for an easel)
Selection Process
This is a juried auction and not all submissions may be accepted. Our jury of local artists, curators, and arts advocates will select pieces based on:
- Artistic quality
- Presentation and readiness to display
- Relevance to the event’s tone and audience
- Overall variety and balance within the exhibition
Selected artists will be notified by July 1st, 2025. If your work is not selected this time, we encourage you to apply again in the future.
Auction & Event Logistics
Submission Deadline: June 1st, 2025
Notification of Acceptance: July 1st, 2025
Artwork Drop-Off: 1 week before the event
Pickup for Unsold Work: Arranged individually after the event or available for donation
Display:
- Art will be placed on partition walls or easels provided by the event team
- Each piece will be displayed with a QR code that links to its online auction listing
- Sold pieces can be taken home after the event or pick it up the following day
Sales Split:
- 50% to the artist
- 50% to CSOL (a registered nonprofit supporting music programming in Charleston)
Artist Perks
Participating artists will receive:
- Recognition on the CSOL website and social media
- Feature in the official printed event program
- Access to a vibrant audience of music lovers, collectors, and community supporters
- Option to attend the event and network with other creatives, musicians, and buyers
- 50% of the sale proceeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be at the event to participate?
No. You are welcome and encouraged to attend, but it’s not required.
How are prices determined?
You’ll suggest a starting bid, and the CSOL team may adjust slightly to ensure competitive auction placement.
What if my work doesn’t sell?
We will contact you after the event to arrange pickup or, if you prefer, you can donate the piece in full to CSOL.
Can I submit reproductions or prints?
Yes!
How to Submit
Ready to share your work with our community?
Fill out the online application here
For questions, please contact CSOLartserenade.com
We’re honored to provide a platform for Charleston’s visual artists and grateful for your willingness to help us build something meaningful. Thank you for supporting the arts—and for making this event come to life.