The Big Steam Blues & Roots Music Festival is now accepting submissions from artists for the official 2026 festival poster and T-shirt design. The festival, scheduled for September 25–26, invites artists to help capture the spirit, sound, and heritage of blues and roots music through original artwork. The festival highlights the rich musical traditions that have shaped American culture and is presented in collaboration with the Hot Springs Food Truck Festival.
This Request for Qualifications (RFQ) seeks one artist to create a design that reflects the character of this festival while celebrating the traditions of blues, roots, and Americana music. The selected artwork will serve as the official visual identity for the festival and will be featured on a range of promotional materials.
Scope of Work: Designs must incorporate key text elements, including the festival name, dates (Sept. 25–26, 2026), and location (Hot Springs, Arkansas).
Artist Compensation: The selected artist will receive a $1,000 honorarium and recognition as the Official 2026 Festival Artist.
Submission Requirements: Artists are asked to submit the following materials in a single PDF: Artist name and contact information. Short artist bio or statement.3–5 examples of previous work (poster design, illustration, printmaking, or related work)
Concept designs are not required but may be included. Artists will be selected based primarily on qualifications and portfolio strength.
Submission Instructions: Submissions should be emailed to mzunick@hotsprings.org with the subject line: Big Steam Festival Artist RFQ. Deadline for submissions is May 15. For more detailed information about the RFQ, the festival, and its performers, visit www.bigsteammusicfestival.com.
