invitation to sponsorshiP
Aqueous 2026
The 49th National Juried Exhibition
The Kentucky Watercolor Society (KWS) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) art organization founded to promote the joy of watercolor through education, demonstrations, workshops, outreach programs, and juried competitions.
The success of the KWS Aqueous National Exhibition is possible due to the generosity of our sponsors.
Exhibition Details:
Open to all watermedia artists 18 and older in the United States
November 13, 2026 - January 17, 2027
Venue: KMAC · Kentucky Museum of Arts and Crafts
Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsorship Benefits
Catalog Recognition: Your name published in our catalog, distributed to approx. 500 subscribers and artists nationwide, and next to the image of the painting(s) to which your prize(s) were awarded
Catalog Copy: Complimentary copy for yourself
Website Mention: Your name published next to the artwork on the KWS website
Social Media Promotion: Opportunity to publish an ad/video clip on our Facebook and Instagram pages
Live Demo: Opportunity to hold a live demo on our Facebook page
Newsletter Feature: Opportunity to publish an article in our quarterly newsletter distributed to all members and subscribers, distributed by email and on the KWS website
Sponsorship type
Cash / Check Donation
Gift Certificate / Gift Card
Merchandise
Dedicate an Award
Purchase Award
Dedicate An Award
REMEMBER AN ART LOVER
Dedicate an award in memory of a loved one.
A SPECIAL GIFT
Celebrate an achievement or special milestone with an award in their honor.
FROM $150 UPWARDS --
Catalog Recognition: Their name published in our catalog next to the image of the painting to which your prize was awarded
Catalog Copy: Complimentary copy for yourself
Website Mention: Their name published next to the artwork on the KWS website
It will be an honor for us, as an art organization, to be chosen to recognize someone you love.
Purchase Award
A Purchase Award allows the sponsor to purchase a painting at a discount from those accepted into the exhibition by the juror. The sponsor will pay 80% of the artist’s asking price (the artist determines the asking price prior to entry). The sponsor selects the award winner by viewing the actual paintings online prior to being hung. The sponsor’s name will be used as the title of the award. The sponsor will own and take posession of the award after the exhibition closes.
FAQ
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Award sponsors directly support and recognize excellence in watercolor art. Your sponsorship helps us provide meaningful recognition and financial rewards to artists selected by a nationally recognized juror.
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Yes! Awards can be named in your honor, in memory of a loved one, or on behalf of a business or organization. Example: “The Jane Doe Memorial Award” or “Sponsored by Bluegrass Art Supply.”
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Absolutely. Sponsors are acknowledged in our exhibition catalog, on our website, and during the awards presentation. Anonymous sponsorship is also available upon request.
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No. All awards are selected by our independent juror to maintain fairness and professionalism in the competition.
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No. The Kentucky Watercolor Society very much appreciates any and all donations. The minimum award is $150 so, if less than $150, the donations will be combined with KWS cash or other awards.
For More Information or if you have questions, contact:
Marian O’Shaughnessy
Marian@WatercolorsByMarian.com