AIO announces an open call for artists for the fifth annual ArtFeeds: Artists in Action Against Food Insecurity. AIO is accepting entries from March 20 through April 17, 2026, with results announced on April 25. Interested artists should submit their entry by April 17; submission details can be found on AIO’s website, www.aiofoodpantry.org/artfeeds. Thirty artists will be selected to participate in this year’s ArtFeeds exhibition and will be selected based on the quality and creativity of their work, and their connection to the community.

ArtFeeds is a first-of-its-kind collaboration formed in partnership with Camden-based Page Gallery and the Maine State Correctional Facility. Launched in 2022, the fundraiser brings together the creativity of the Midcoast’s vibrant artist community, the talents of the Maine State Prison’s woodworking program, and the vision of Page Gallery to raise funds for AIO’s Food and Energy Assistance programs.

“AIO is always on the lookout for ways to connect with the community and give space for passion, concern and means to come together to help our neighbors experiencing food insecurity," said Alan Kearl, AIO Executive Director, in a news release. "We are so grateful for the fifth annual ArtFeeds event and appreciate Page Gallery, the Woodworking Industries at the Correctional Facility, the artist community and their patrons who come together for this event. Together there is enough and together we can make a difference.” 

The only direction given to the artists is to create something that represents the community taking care of one another with food. Artists will be given the choice to work with a bowl or a platter. In the four years since the event was launched over $110,000 has been raised in support for AIO’s programs.

“Each year, I’m deeply moved by how enthusiastically artists respond to this project,” said Colin Page, artist and owner of Page Gallery. “There’s something powerful about taking a simple wooden bowl crafted at the Maine State Prison and transforming it into a one-of-a-kind work of art. In a time of such great need, artists are eager to use their creativity to give back and support an essential organization like our local food pantry. It’s a meaningful way for the arts community to come together and make a tangible difference.”   

The finished bowls and platters will be on display at Page Gallery, September 17-26, 2026. The exhibition will open on Thursday, September 17, which corresponds with Camden’s monthly Art Walk. A silent auction will run simultaneously, culminating with a reception at Page Gallery on September 26. All funds raised will support AIO’s four programs: Food Assistance, Energy Assistance, Weekend Meals Program and Diaper Assistance.

About AIO Food and Energy Assistance

Now in our 36th year, AIO provides nutritious food and heating assistance to Knox County families without judgement, always with compassion. Funding and access to AIO’s programs are more critical than ever as food insecurity in Knox County is projected to continue to increase. Knox County currently has the 4th highest food insecurity rate in the state. Child food insecurity is estimated at 17.6%. During the past year, AIO has supported nearly 2,100 unique households in the County, that’s more than 4,800 of our neighbors, or more than 11.7% of the County. AIO has distributed more than 95,000 meals to students through our weekend meals program. AIO’s Energy Assistance Program helps more than 500 households with heating assistance or electrical disconnection prevention – which is critical as winter marches on. AIO has nearly doubled the number of energy assistance vouchers vs. last year in what has been a time of overwhelming need. AIO provides a direct path for donors to assist our community by putting your donation to work immediately.