Arts in the Area

Christmas Card Lane

A community art project for the holiday season hosted by the Decatur Area Arts Council.

An outdoor exhibit/competition comprised of larger-than-life 'cards' created by local artists and groups.

The cards are displayed in a downtown Decatur area (300 N. Water St.) from November through December.
The community votes for their favorite card design and prize money will be awarded to the top three designs.
Thank you to sponsors Main Place Properties, Lowe's, and Dynagraphics.
Thanks also to the Mt. Zion Lion's Park for assistance with fence posts.

CLICK HERE to see the winning cards for 2021.

CLICK HERE to see the winning cards for 2020.

CLICK HERE to see the winning cards for 2019.

CLICK HERE to see the winning cards for 2018.

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Eligibility

The Decatur Area Arts Council “Christmas Card Lane” project is open to all artists or groups (amateur or professional) regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, or physical disability. You do not have to be a Decatur resident to participate.

Application Process and Fee

APPLY ONLINE --- HERE
Download the application (and the guidelines found on this webpage) at the bottom of the page.
$25 per card, to be submitted with a completed application.
There are a limited number available... first-come, first-served.

Pick Up and Return of Cards

Participants will be notified when they may pick up blank 'cards' starting October 18. Contact DAAC to arrange a date and time for pick up - 217-423-3189 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
Completed cards MUST be return by Nov. 17 to the Decatur Area Arts Council.

The Art Work

Participants will be provided with a 4’x6’ sheet of plywood (primed with white paint) upon which to create their card design.
Artists must provide all needed supplies/materials other than of the wooden card.
All design materials must be secured to the surface in such a way to withstand winter weather and wind.
Participants are allowed to add elements to the card that create a 3-D effect and must be attached securely to the plywood.
Designs must be winter/holiday themed and suitable for public viewing by all ages.
Cards must be designed vertically.
Please note that cards will be placed approximately 20 feet from the street, so keep this in mind when considering small details to your design.
DAAC reserves the right to not display any card at its discretion.
Holes will be drilled in the finished cards in order to secure them to the posts neede to support them for display.

Awards

$200 first
$100 second
$50 third
Prize money will be awarded within two weeks of the conclusion of the event.

Voting

The Decatur Area Arts Council will arrange for a temporary online voting page so the community may vote for their favorite card design from November 22 until December 24, 2021.
VOTING ENDED DEC. 24, 2021.