What is BirDiversity?
The BirDiversity Art Exhibition is a celebration of visual art, science and ornithology in the Princeton University community. Created as a collaboration between the Stoddard Lab and the Council on Science and Technology, this exhibition aims to highlight the creative work of artists and scientists of all experience levels, thus generating discussion about birds in our rapidly-changing world. Above all, BirDiversity intends to shine a light on the beautiful, mysterious, and diverse birds with which we share our planet.
Who can submit art?
All members of the Princeton University community are welcome to submit work. This includes all Princeton students, faculty, staff, and their families.
What "art" do you accept?
We are looking for any art medium imaginable. Any 2D, 3D, and/or digital medium that combines art and ornithology is accepted. This may include paintings, photos, videos, audios, poetry, sculptures, and more!
However, we will not accept art submissions that include biological materials (e.g., feathers), as for many bird species, possessing feathers and other biological material without a permit is prohibited by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
How many submissions can I make?
There is no limit on the number of submissions a person can make! We only ask that you are mindful and intentional with the materials you choose to submit.
Do I have to print or frame my art in order to submit it?
No, you do not have to worry about printing or framing your art yourself. The BirDiversity committee will prepare all art that is selected to be featured in the exhibition for gallery view.
Will there be prizes for the best art submissions?
Yes! Prizes will be awarded to top submissions.
When is the art submission deadline?
The art submissions page will close at 11:59 PM on Tuesday, October 24, 2023. If for some reason you require a short extension, please contact us (find out how to contact us below).
Do you provide financial assistance for project materials?
Yes, we may be able to provide modest financial assistance to artists in need of funds for materials, etc. Please contact us for more information. Don’t forget to utilize all of the wonderful art facilities already on campus and their available materials.
Check out the Princeton University MakeNet website for a list of free tools and spaces for creators at Princeton offered by MakeNet partners.
You can also utilize university-organized spaces and resources, like the New College West Ceramics Studio, the Department of Art and Archaeology's Visual Resources, and the PU Library's Studio Art Resources, amongst many others!
When and where is the exhibition taking place?
BirDiversity will open on Saturday, November 11, 2023, for a campus-wide reception in the Lewis Center for the Arts (LCA) building. The exhibition will then remain open to the public for a limited time.
I have more questions. Who can help me?
You can email one of our BirDiversity committee members, Lazarena Lazarova, at [email protected] with any questions or comments.
You can also scroll down and fill out the form at the bottom of this page with your name, email, and question!
Where can I learn more about bird-related activities on campus?
Check out the Stoddard Lab’s Princeton Better for Birds Project website.
The Stoddard Lab launched the Princeton Better for Birds Project in 2022 with the goal to help make Princeton’s campus and the surrounding community a friendly and sustainable place for birds.
Please note that by submitting your work to BirDiversity, you are allowing the use of your work in CST and Stoddard Lab promotional materials and are agreeing to the display of your works in future BirDiversity exhibitions and events.