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Application Deadline: October 3rd @ midnight
WHAT WE'RE ALL ABOUT
For over 30 years, it's been ADC's mission to support living artists, and ACA (Art Comes Alive) does just that. Now entering its 16th year, ACA has earned its reputation as the "Academy Awards for Art," and it's only getting bigger
Held inside our stunning 13,000 sq. ft. gallery in Cincinnati's vibrant Over-the-Rhine district, an artistic hub bursting with creativity, ACA is a career-making opportunity for contemporary artists.
This one-of-a-kind event connects artists with the people who can elevate their careers: interior designers, gallery owners, private collectors, corporate art buyers, and more. Each year, ACA grows in size, prestige, and and influence - and this year promises to be the biggest yet, featuring:
- Over $450,000 in awards,
- New jurors,
- More exposure, opportunities, and ways to get your work seen and sold
If you're ready to take your art career to the next level, ACA 2025 is your moment!
IMPORTANT DATES!
August 8 ........................................................ Applications Open
October 3 ...................................................... Applications Close
October 6 .............................................................. Jurying Begins
October 13 .................................................. Results Announced
October 31 ............................................ Art Must Arrive at ADC
November 14 .............................................. Artist Meet & Greet
November 15 .............Opening Night & Awards Ceremony
MEET THE JURORS.
LITSA SPANOS
President, ADC Fine Art
Awards: 1 yr. Gallery Contract (4)
Value: $34,000
Driven by a passion for art and the desire to bring beauty into as many homes, healthcare facilities, and corporate offices as possible, Litsa Spanos opened the doors of ADC over 30 years ago. Litsa has an uncanny ability to select beautiful artwork and discover talented artists for her clients. Her vision continues to grow, transforming a retired popcorn machine factory into a beautiful 13,000 sq. ft. mega-gallery and framing facility. The recipient of numerous pretegious awards, ADC currently ranks in the top 2% of all women-owned businesses in the nation. Thanks to her company's continued success, Litsa continues her mission to support contemporary, living artists.
ANNIE KAUTZ
Gallery Director, ADC Fine Art
Awards: Solo Show (2), Print Magazine Feature (2), Online Magazine Feature (4)
Value: $25,000
Annie has served as Gallery Director at ADC for 3 years, where she manages every stage of the exhibtion process from selecting and curating artwork to coordinating logistics and ensuring a seamless experience for artists and collectors alike. In addition to curating ADC;s in-house shows such as ACA, she directs the gallery's participation in major national shows including Red Dot Miami, Art San Diego, Art Santa Fe, and the Scottsdale Ferrari Art Fair. Annie also leads ADC's virtual design services, helping clients envision artwork in their spaces. With extensive experience in gallery operations and a commitment to supporting artists, she brings both curatorial insight and organizational expertise to every project.
SYLVIA ROMBIS
Creative Partner & Consultant, ADC Fine Art
Awards: 1 yr. Gallery Contract
Value: $8,500
Sylvia is recongized as one of the premier art consultants in the Midwest, with extensive experience as both a gallery owner and curator. Formerly the owner of one of Cincinnati's most highly regarded contemporary art galleries, she has built her career on curating exhibtions and facilitating meaningful connections between artists and collectors. Specializing in site-specific art installations in both 2D and 3D, Sylvia is known for her discerning eye and her ability to translate client needs into compelling artistic concepts. Her expertinse, rooted in a career that began as a designer in the fashion industry, has guided countless collectors in creating artful, dynamic spaces that reflect their individuality.
AMY SCALIA
Marketing Director, ADC Fine Art
Awards: Ultimate+ SmartSell Membership (1), Ultimate SmartSell Membership (2), Advanced SmartSell Membership (3), Starter SmartSell Membership (4)
Value: $17,000
Amy is ADC's Marketing Director, bringing years of experience in media, publishing, and digital strategy to the gallery. She leads initiatives like the SmartSell artist program, guiding artists in building their careers while also curating innovative marketing approaches that elevate ADC's presence. From managing social media and digital compaigns to orchestrating impactful gallery events, Amy ensures that ADC's message reached and reonates with a wide audience. With a proven track record in content creation, brand growth, and community engagement, she's a driving force behind connecting artists, collectors, and the broader creative community.
ELLI MILAN
Founder, Milan Art Institute
Awards: Art Supplies, Masterclasses, 1:1 Mentoring
Value: $26,000
milanartinstitute.com
Elli Milan has maintained a successful career as a professional artist for over 28 years and sold over 10,000 pieces of original art. Her family of professional artists created the foundation of Milan Art Institute, a hub of a growing art revolution. The Institute provides community, inspiration, and education to students all over the world. The Mastery Program has taught and helped over 10,000 students launch thriving art careers.Elli is passionate about empowering artits. She has changed the lives of many, helping them step into their true potential. From novice to professional, she helps artists pursue their passion and turn it into a profitable career.
GARY HANDLER
Owner, Curate Gallery
Awards: 1 yr. Gallery Contract
Value: $8,500
Curate's talented team is led by owner Gary Handler who brings more than 20 years of experience in building some of the finest art collections in the Southeast. Gary's insightful approach is based on creating strong personal relationships with a focus on his valued collectors. His proven success with Vinings Gallery, now with two locations in Atlanta, GA, and his passion for art, allowed him to pursue the Curate's opening. Located in the heart of Rosemary Beach, Fl, Curate offers a no-pressure environment in art buying. They regularly host exclusive shows and live painting performances that allow the artist and collector to connect.
CANDICE GORMAN
Partner & Fine Art Appraiser, Art Leaders Gallery
Awards: 1 yr. Gallery Contract (3)
Value: $25,500
Candice is a Fine Art Appreaiser and Partner at Art Leaders Gallery. With a background in gallery management and fine art advisory, she brings both expertise and market insight. Candice has held multiple leadership roles in the fine art industry, including opening an art gallery in The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, which was named "Best New Art Gallery in Las Vegas" by Vegas Magazine in 2021. In addition, Candice is also an Auctioneer and a member of the Michigan Auctioneer Association in addition to serving on the exceptional collecting experiences through events and one-on-one personalized services.
DAVID GORMAN
Partner & Curator, bG Gallery
Awards: 1 yr. Gallery Contract
Value: $8,500
With over 15 years of experience, David Gorman has built a global career as an art dealer, curator, and gallery owner. He began as an apprentic art auctioneer, traveling to more than 80 countries and later serving as Director of the world's largest commercial art gallery. In this role, he led high-profile auctions, interviewed renowned contemporary artists, and provided expert commentary on works by masters such as Pablo Picasso and Rembrandt. In 2013, David became a partner at the bG Gallery in Santa Monica's Bergamot Station, where he continues to support and elevate both emerging and established artists across a variety of disciplines.
DIONNE WOODS
Artist, Business Coach, Speaker, Instructor, The Turquoise Iris
Awards: Print Magazine Feature (8)
Value: $3,600
Dionne Woods is an artist, speaker, and mentor whose creative journey has grown into a global brand, The Turquoise Iris. Dionne has built a creative community through her memberships, retreats, workshops, her print publication The Turquoise Iris Journal, and her podcast The Motivatarian Exchange with Dionne Woods. Her work as a mentor and coach has inspired thousands of women to embrace creativity as both a personal sanctuary and a path to growth in business and life. She is the creator of the Motivatarian Method, a framework designed to spark corageous expression, curious exploration, and connected growth in creatives and leaders alike.
OUR PURCHASE AWARDS.
WHAT ARE PURCHASE AWARDS?
Purchase Awards = Art Sales!
Every year, our clients look forward to discovering what ACA artists create. With new projects always in the works, they rely on ACA to give them a first look at fresh artwork to bring those spaces to life. They share their budgets, and you share your art—it’s that simple.
When your work is chosen, you’ll not only see your art placed in amazing projects, you’ll also receive a Purchase Award and a check in hand. Nothing beats selling art at the show!
ACA THROUGH THE YEARS...
ACA 2022
ACA 2015
The Story of ACA
Have a question?
Don't be afraid to reach out. We are happy to assist you with any questions you may have!