Over the summer I participated in an art project called The Canvas Project 2 run by the Art House Co-op. The organization sent participants 5 words suggested by website visitors and 5 canvases (3" x 3") to depict the words. Some of the words were maddeningly—or thrillingly—abstract. One of my words was "versus."
Some of the 6,000 paintings from 48 states and 21 countries were displayed at an exhibit at the Atlanta airport. There will also be an exhibit at the Art House Gallery in Atlanta and a book with the entries will be available for sale. Some artists (not me) posted their entries online. The diversity of submissions is amazing.
I really like the Art House Co-op and I recommend you check them out. They have deadlines coming up for several upcoming projects, including the Sketchbook Project and the Original Motion Picture. You don't have to be an "artist" to participate. I am proof of that! It's a great way to stretch yourself and try something new.