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Microbe Challenge

 

Our Fourth annual Museum of Beadwork Challenge is open to submissions until May 1st, 2026.
This challenge is once again being co-sponsored by Miyuki Co., Ltd. and Caravan Beads and being joined by The Microbe Institute! We are very excited and grateful for their generous support.  
Banner image is the artwork of Betsy Youngquist.

 

We challenge you to create a piece that introduces audiences to the microbial realm. What about the world of microbes inspires you? The miniature universe in your gut microbiome? The complicated webs of mycelium in the woods? The sourdough starter sitting on your counter? Let these smallest of lifeforms stir your imagination to create something of your own that helps us all see the beauty of this unseen realm.

All around us—and within each of us—there exists an invisible world of microscopic creatures performing what appears to be magic. Often, microbes are strictly thought of as germs—agents of disease. Meanwhile, these tiny alchemists are also breaking down pollutants, creating psychedelic chemicals, or crafting some of our favorite fermented foods! The misunderstanding of microbes is a fundamental challenge in environmental education and a source of needless fear. The Museum of Beadwork and The Microbe Institute want to change that. We believe the medium of beadwork and the collective creativity of community is a wonderful way to address this educational challenge. So let’s do something really big by getting really small. Join us!  

 


Challenge Details: 

The MOB Challenge has 5 categories:

Sculpture - Free standing 3-dimensional pieces.
Tapestry - Hanging/wall pieces, or framed work, generally 2-dimensional.
Clothing - Modern or historic clothing items, outerwear, or under garments.
Accessories - Purses, shoes, masks, etc.
Jewelry - Body adornment other than clothing or accessory items.

Requirements:

  • All entries must evoke the challenge theme for this year: Microbes & Mushrooms: Nature's artistry in detail. 
  • One entry per person. Entries must be made by a single person, no group entries allowed.
  • All entries must be of original design: winning designs from any other contests may not be submitted. 
  • Any beading technique or combination of techniques may be used.
  • All entries must be comprised primarily of Miyuki beads (70% or higher). This does not include things like armature, support, substrate, etc. Any Miyuki beads are acceptable, not just Delica beads. If you are unsure about the beads you have, contact your supplier for help.
  • This is an international competition, entries from all countries are encouraged.
  • There is no size limitation for this competition. Just remember that if your entry is chosen you will be expected to cover the shipping to and from Portland, Maine.
  • The initial judging is based on digital images. Each entry can submit up to 10 images. Do not mail your actual beadwork to us until instructed to do so. 
  • The selected entrants from the initial round will be required to send in or deliver their completed pieces in order to be considered for the final judging.
  • If your entry requires special display fixtures you are expected to send those as well, along with clear and simple instructions for display. This does not include typical neck forms or mannequin bodies/heads; we have many of these. Feel free to inquire with any questions before shipping.
  • Selected entries will be on exhibit for a 1 year show in the Museum of Beadwork gallery.
  • All applications, entrance fees, and photos must be received no later than midnight on May 1st, 2026.

  • Please check out our last three MOB Challenge to see the finalists and winners. 2021 , 2024 , 2025. 

  • PDF Application here.
  • Application Fee here.

Prizes:

Grand prize - $500 cash prize plus $500 Caravan Beads Gift Certificate
Best of category (5 prizes, one in each category) - $300 Caravan Beads Gift Certificate
Judges Choice (1 from each judge from any category) - $150 Caravan Beads Gift Certificate
People’s choice (This award will be given after the opening of the Exhibition as it will be chosen by votes from attendees ) - $200 Caravan Beads Gift Certificate

Judges’ decisions are final. Entries will be judged on

  •  Overall visual presence
  •  Craftsmanship
  •  Difficulty
  •  Use of beads
  •  Originality/creativity
  •  Connection to the theme 
  • All entrants will be informed via email whether they have been selected for the final round of judging or not.
  • If you are selected for the final round you will also receive email notification with details on how to proceed.

Exhibit details:

  • Do not mail beadwork until instructed to do so.
  • Only entries that make it to the second round of judging will be exhibited.
  • Exhibition dates will be from July 9th, 2026 to June 27th 2027.
  • Artists will be responsible for all shipping to and from the Museum of Beadwork.

  • Voting for the People’s Choice category will take place from the opening of the exhibit until August 16th, 2026. Your piece must physically be on display to qualify.

Other details:

  • The Museum of Beadwork, Caravan Beads, Inc, and Miyuki co., Ltd. retain the right to photograph all entries and use those photographs as well as any photography entered into the competition in any lawful way including (but not limited to) publicity, marketing, publication, exhibitions, etc. in perpetuity with full credit to the artist.
  • Employees, Volunteers, and Board members of The Museum of Beadwork, Caravan Beads, Inc. and Miyuki Co., Ltd. are not eligible to participate in the competition.

 

 

If you have any questions, feel free to email us at submissions@museumofbeadwork.org