Call for Art

Evolved Art Gallery is seeking submissions for our upcoming July exhibition honoring the world of Pee Wee Herman. Read on for submission details.

On a personal note, Pee-wee Herman was one of my biggest inspirations growing up. He was absolutely brilliant, and I spent my childhood wishing I could actually live inside the Playhouse. To honor the anniversary of his passing, we are looking for art that captures that same whimsy, nostalgia, and beautifully bizarre spirit. From grey suits and red bowties to the secret words and rebel loners—show us your best tribute to a cult icon.

Photographer (above photo): Herb Ritts (1952–2002)
The iconic portrait above, originally featured in the September 1987 issue of Interview Magazine, serves as a profound visual metaphor for the duality of Paul Reubens. Captured at the height of Pee-wee’s Playhouse mania - a time when Reubens almost exclusively appeared in public as his alter ego - the image features the actor in a formal tuxedo adorned with dozens of smaller photographs pinned to his jacket. These snapshots include various iterations of the character in his signature glen plaid suit, his "Pee-wee" dolls, and rare glimpses of Reubens as himself.

By physically layering the creator with his creation, the portrait exemplifies Reubens' immense versatility and the inseparable link between the man and the world-famous character he brought to life.

Submission Requirements & Guidelines:

  • Theme: Anything and everything Pee-wee Herman, Paul Reubens, and the Playhouse universe.

  • Size Constraint: Artworks cannot exceed 40" in any direction (including the frame).

  • Hanging Requirements: We utilize a professional museum wire hanging system. All pieces must be wired and ready to hang upon delivery. (No sawtooth hangers or unstrung frames).

  • Completion: All pieces must be 100% completed at the time of submission. No "work in progress" entries will be accepted.

  • Recency: Works must have been created within the last 2 years. Older pieces will not be considered.

  • STRICT NO-AI POLICY: AI-generated or AI-assisted artwork will not be accepted. We are dedicated to protecting the integrity of traditional and digital artists.

Key Dates:

  • Submission Deadline: June 30

  • Opening Night: July 11

How to Apply:

Please email your submission to christina@evolvedartgallery.com and include:

  1. High-resolution images of the finished piece.

  2. Title, dimensions, price, and specific medium.

  3. A brief description of what this piece means to you and your own connection to the world of Pee-wee.

  4. Link to your portfolio or website.

We are obsessed with the details and the guest experience. Help us curate a tribute that is as meticulous and magical as the Playhouse itself. We look forward to seeing your work!