FRINGE VISUAL ARTISTS
Visual art is a key element of the Elgin Fringe Festival. Fringe celebrates bold artistic experimentation, showcasing artists' work across a spectrum of forms and genres. Artists are selected via lottery, and the exhibition is not curated.
Artwork is on display during a free exhibition at Side Street Studio's Gallery during the month of September, beginning with an Opening Reception where patrons can meet the artists. Applications are open February 1 - March 1.
Elgin Fringe Festival 2026
Sep. 4 • Visual Arts Opening
Sep. 5–22 • Special Pop-up Events
Sep. 23–27 • Performance Weekend (80+ shows!)
VISUAL ARTISTS FAQs
How Do I Apply for Elgin Fringe?
Our applications for this year's festival are accepted from February 1st to March 1st. There is no application fee. No late submissions will be accepted. Artists are selected via lotteries based on the artist's location and representation. You will be notified of your acceptance into the festival within 90 days of the application closing date.
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How are Artists Selected?
EFF selects artists via lottery and is not curated. The lottery categories are as follows:
Equity Seeking Artists: Artists who self-identify as Underrepresented. This can include but is not limited to those that are BIPOC and members of the LGBTQ community. The festival is always open to questions and concerns on who qualifies as underrepresented. Equity-seeking artists not drawn via lottery in this category are automatically placed in the Local or Touring lottery pools, giving them two chances to be selected.
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Local Artists: Artists residing within 50 miles of Side Street Studio Arts (15 Ziegler Ct., Elgin, IL 60120).
Touring Artists/Out of Area: Artists residing outside the 50-mile radius.
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What Happens if I am Not Selected?
Have no fear! All artists not selected by the lottery will automatically be put on the waitlist in their respective categories. Wait-listed artists will be contacted within 90 days of the close of the application.
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