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Urban Suburban Rural (Online Photo Competition) – Call For Artists

Urban Suburban Rural (Online Photo Competition) – Call For Artists

[Side Arts Certified Sponsored Listing] The New York Center for Photographic Art (NYC4PA) announces a call for artists for Urban Suburban Rural, an online photography competition.

Urban, suburban, and rural: these are location choices we make for living, working, and vacationing. Each has its own visual characteristics that make it the best option. What was it about these locales caught your eye? Was it the crowded streets, public transport, or skyscraper silhouettes in the Urban Landscape? Did you capture hamburgers and hot dogs on a family bar-b-q? Maybe, it was the geometry of a street of well-groomed front yards, a strip mall, or other images representative of the suburban scene. Finally, were you caught up in the imagery of Rural Impressions – the farmhouses, the fields, the animals, the white farm fences, or rusted cars on front lawns?

Send your interpretations of rural impressions, suburban scenes, and urban landscapes. Lots to see, lots to photograph.

Click here for the application / registration

Enter by: 4 January 2026

NYC4PA offers opportunities to participate in themed calls for photographers. Each call has a different theme and 50 images win. The prizes total $4,000. There is a grand prize, 3 first prizes, 3 second prizes, 3 third prizes, 20 juror’s selections, and 20 honorable mentions. All 50 winners are posted in a gallery on the NYC4PA website and included in an exhibition gallery. The call is open to any photographers worldwide and of any age, amateurs or professional. A professional photographer, gallery owner, or photography teacher is the juror.

About New York Center for Photographic Art

The mission of the New York Center for Photographic Art is to provide exhibition opportunities in the vibrant New York City gallery world to photographers around the globe. NYC4PA offers international, themed, open call competitions juried by recognized experts in the field of photography. Prizes include cash awards, online gallery, catalog, and New York City gallery exhibits.

For more information, contact nyc4pa@gmail.com

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M&T Bank Clothesline Art Festival (Rochester, NY) – Call For Artists

M&T Bank Clothesline Art Festival (Rochester, NY) – Call For Artists

[Side Arts Certified Sponsored Listing] Memorial Art Gallery (MAG) of the University of Rochester announces a call for artists for the M&T Bank Clothesline Art Festival,  their largest annual fundraiser and biggest celebration of the arts for almost 70 years.

Artists from across the country are invited to apply to showcase their work for purchase at this juried, two-day festival, Saturday, August 29, and Sunday, August 30, 2026, from 10 am to 5 pm.

Click here for the application / registration

Enter by: 16 August 2026

M&T Bank Clothesline Art Festival spaces are available both on the outdoor grounds and inside the Vanden Brul Pavilion. Clothesline is also the place to experience all-day live entertainment, sample food from some of Rochester’s favorite food trucks and vendors, enjoy free family art activities, and visit the museum.

Artists will have the opportunity to showcase their art to visitors from and around the Rochester and surrounding region for two days in this juried festival. All artists and makers participating in the festival submit original work, whether one-of-a-kind or limited edition. The work must be conceived and designed solely by the artist or maker, demonstrating vision, imagination, and originality.

This is the second year artists will be able to choose from outdoor or indoor spaces (indoor spaces are limited!). Food and entertainment offerings have expanded over the last year. Additionally, the admission price has been lowered to $5 for the general public, and MAG Members are admitted free of charge, as are children under the age of twelve.

About Memorial Art Gallery

A visit to the Memorial Art Gallery is a journey through more than 5,000 years of art history. From the relics of antiquity to works in the vanguard of contemporary practice, MAG offers a panorama of the world’s art. Our 14-acre campus is a spectacular public art space that is a popular destination for Rochesterians and out-of-town visitors alike.

MAG’s permanent collection of more than 13,000 objects has been called “the best balanced in the state outside of metropolitan New York City.” In addition to its collection, the museum offers a year-round schedule of temporary exhibitions, lectures, concerts, tours, and family activities.

For more information, contact clothesline@mag.rochester.edu

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National Exhibition Of Traditional Oils (Steamboat Springs, CO) – Call For Artists

National Exhibition Of Traditional Oils (Steamboat Springs, CO) – Call For Artists

[Side Arts Certified Sponsored Listing] Oil Painters of America (OPA) announces a call for artists for the 35th National Exhibition of Traditional Oils, hosted by the Steamboat Art Museum in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, on view May 29–August 29, 2026.

This exceptional exhibition will showcase the finest works in draftsmanship, color, and composition, featuring a diverse range of styles and subjects.

Click here for the application / registration

Enter by: 6 March 2026

OPA membership required. Over $100,000 in awards, including a $25,000 Best in Show!

Joining Oil Painters of America connects artists across North America who are dedicated to excellence in representational oil painting. Members gain access to free educational webinars, exclusive discounts on art products, and opportunities for professional growth and recognition through workshops, exhibitions, and networking with fellow artists.

Entering the National Exhibition of Traditional Oils provides a prestigious platform to showcase your work, compete for over $100,000 in awards, including a $25,000 Best in Show, and exhibit at the Steamboat Art Museum. Participants gain national exposure among collectors, galleries, and peers, while elevating their skills and reputation in the oil painting community.

About Oil Painters of America

Oil Painters of America (OPA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the timeless art of representational oil painting. With over 3,500 members across North America, OPA connects artists of all levels in a vibrant, supportive community where creativity thrives. Members gain access to prestigious national juried exhibitions, inspiring online showcases, and the annual convention featuring a wet paint competition, paint-outs, workshops, and live demonstrations. Exclusive webinars, scholarships, and art-product discounts provide tools to grow and experiment, while networking opportunities bring together passionate artists who celebrate the beauty, skill, and tradition of oil painting.

For more information, contact lpusch@oilpaintersofamerica.com

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Newton Free Library (MA) Art Exhibits – Call For Artists

Newton Free Library (MA) Art Exhibits – Call For Artists

[Side Arts Certified Sponsored Listing]  The Newton Free Library announces a call for artists for July – December 2026 exhibits. Artists must be from the New England region.

The Newton Free Library presents twelve art shows each year in the building’s Main Hall, featuring works by New England artists. As one of the busiest public library buildings in Massachusetts, this exhibit space is highly sought after and well-loved by library patrons.

Click here for the application / registration

Enter by: 12 December 2025

Eligibility: The Library welcomes applications from New England artists showing two-dimensional works that are compatible with the Walker display system. Both individual and group shows are welcome. Each exhibit is on display for one month and uses the full exhibit space.

Free-standing sculptural pieces are not eligible.

The Library encourages artists from a variety of backgrounds and life experiences to apply.

Many artists seek to exhibit their work at The Newton Free Library because the location guarantees that their work will be seen by a large audience. The Library is visited by more than 45,000 people each month. Most visitors enter through the Main Hall and see the art exhibits as they arrive. Library patrons are keenly tuned into the gallery space – visiting and spending time appreciating the works shown. Given that free gallery space is difficult to come by, it is a boon for artists that, if selected, they show fee-free. There is no commission for work sold and there is no fee to apply.

About Newton Free Library

The Newton Free Library is a community center at the heart of cultural activity in Newton, Massachusetts, a city south west of Boston with a population of approximately 90,000. Residents enjoy the art exhibits in the Library’s Main Hall and eagerly await them each month. The highly-visible exhibit location is just off the main entrance door. Visitors walk by the Main Hall as they come into the building. There is competition for exhibitions where many award-winning artists have been featured.

For more information, contact artapplication@newtonfreelibrary.net

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Lakeshore Art Festival 2026 (Muskegon, MI) – Call For Artists

Lakeshore Art Festival 2026 (Muskegon, MI)  – Call For Artists

[Sponsored Listing] The City of Muskegon, Downtown Development Authority announces a call for artists for the Lakeshore Art Festival, a two-day event that is a favorite of community and artists alike, featuring over 250 exhibitors, in beautiful Downtown Muskegon, Michigan.

The event incorporates public art projects, live street and stage performances, children’s activities, and local food vendors, making it a true community celebration of creativity. It’s not just about looking at art — it’s about experiencing it. Be a part of this juried festival and submit your application today.

 

Click here for the application / registration

Enter by: 1 February 2026

Exhibiting at the Lakeshore Art Festival comes with thoughtful amenities designed to make your weekend enjoyable and stress-free. Artists can look forward to cash prizes and awards totaling $3,000, along with a continental breakfast served on both Saturday and Sunday. The festival also provides booth sitters, overnight security, and drive-up loading and unloading for convenient setup and teardown. To top it off, all artists are invited to a special Artist Reception, offering a great opportunity to relax, connect, and celebrate creativity.

The Lakeshore Art Festival stands out as one of the most engaging and well-loved summer events along Michigan’s lakeshore because it combines art, community, and experience in a way that appeals to everyone — artists, locals, and visitors alike. The festival is held in the heart of downtown Muskegon, just steps from the lakeshore, restaurants, and shops — giving it a lively, walkable atmosphere. The lake breeze, art-lined streets, and live entertainment create a festival vibe that’s hard to beat. It’s not just about looking at art — it’s about experiencing it.

Fine Art Cash Prizes and Awards

  • 1st Place/Best in Show – $1,000
  • 2nd Place – $800
  • 3rd Place – $600
  • 4th Place – $400
  • Committee’s Choice – $200

Craft Art Cash Prizes and Awards

  • 1st Place – $150
  • 2nd Place – $100
  • 3rd Place – $50

Lakeshore Art Festival Testimonials

“It was the best sales at a festival I’ve had yet!”

“Setup and tear down were a breeze, no rush or fussing. The customer base were so kind and welcoming! So were the event staff! Very well organized event in a clean and beautiful area of town! Saw lots of marketing for this show on our way to set up.”

“Great volunteers, fun crowd, easy load in and out. Thank you for a great show! “

About City of Muskegon, Downtown Development Authority

The City of Muskegon, Downtown Development Authority (DDA) exists to act as a catalyst in the development of a community’s downtown district. Various funding tools exist for DDA’s including millage and tax increment financing for public improvements within the boundaries of the district. “Our mission is to allocate our resources in support of development, promotions, and events toward creating a
thriving downtown and its waterfront where all people can live, work, play, and stay.”

For more information, contact info@lakeshoreartfestival.org

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Mulvane Art Fair (Topeka, KS) – Call For Artists

Mulvane Art Fair (Topeka, KS) – Call For Artists

[Side Arts Certified Sponsored Listing] The Mulvane Art Museum announces a call for artists for the 2026 Mulvane Art Fair in Topeka, Kansas.

The 32nd annual Mulvane Art Fair will feature artists from across the country for a two-day event that is a favorite of the community and artists alike. Be a part of this exciting event and submit your application today! With a focus on quality and variety, the fine art event is a favorite in the community and region. Proceeds from the event support the mission and programs of the Mulvane Art Museum, which is Topeka’s only art museum and is on the Washburn University campus. High standards for art are key to the success of the 2026 Mulvane Art Fair.

Click here for the application / registration

Enter by: 23 February 2026

Artist Amenities:

  • Monetary artist awards and a purchase award
  • Patron program
  • Saturday morning coffee & breakfast
  • Sunday morning coffee & pre-packaged snacks
  • Booth sitters
  • Water bottles delivered to your booth
  • Event map/guide
  • Overnight security
  • Booth signs
  • Food trucks
  • Clean, convenient restrooms on site
  • Assistance with move-in/move-out
  • Drastically price-reduced accommodations on campus

Patron Program: In 2025, patrons pledged in advance to purchase $18,000 worth of art and ended up spending over $45,000. Purchase patron pledges to be even greater in 2026.

Mulvane Art Fair Cash and Purchase Awards

On-site judging of the artists’ booths will take place 10am-1pm the Saturday of the Mulvane Art Fair. The award presentation the same day will give out a total of $4,600 to winning artists.

  • $1000 Best of Show
  • $500 Best of 2-Dimensional
  • $500 Best of 3-Dimensional
  • 2 Honorable mentions of $300
  • $2000 Purchase Award

About Mulvane Art Museum

The Mulvane Art Museum at Washburn University offers free admission to a nationally accredited facility with six exhibition galleries, two sculpture gardens, an interactive artmaking space, and over 6,000 works of art.

Vision: The Mulvane Art Museum empowers our community by providing art experiences that inspire creativity, encourage intellectual engagement, and connect us to each other and the world.

Mission: The Mulvane Art Museum creates pathways to learning, creativity, and connection through the visual arts. As a university museum, the Mulvane collects, preserves, and interprets works of art for the educational benefit and enjoyment of Washburn University, Topeka, and the region. The Mulvane’s collections, exhibitions, and programs support creative and scholarly work, cultivate community, promote cultural understanding, and advance the mission of Washburn University.

For more information, contact stacy.ash@washburn.edu

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Angels For Artists Art Auction (Sarasota, FL) – Call For Artists

Angels For Artists Art Auction (Sarasota, FL) – Call For Artists

[Side Arts Certified Sponsored Listing] Halo Arts Project announces a call for artists for the 7th annual Angels for Artists online and live art auction. Angels for Artists raises funds and exists to provide resources and programming support to visual artists in Florida. The online and live art auction is a fun-filled event.

Theme: “What is Beauty?”, a powerful exploration of presence – not just what the eye can see. Not always just an appearance. Beauty is a quality that comes from the object and rises from the mind. Beauty blends the senses and the soul. It can be chaotic, cultural, discreet, or fierce. The exhibition celebrates varies expression and aesthetic appreciation. Create a captivating aura that goes beyond what meets the eye. Explore the mirror of this powerful social construct that reflects and shapes a society’s values, fears, and aspirations.

Click here for the application / registration

Enter by: 31 December 2025

Entry fee: Free

Artists are invited to submit paintings, prints, archival photography, small sculptures, and mixed media works. Art must be original (several choices are helpful). The jury process helps to determine a balanced presentation of art. Canvases not already framed must be painted and gallery wrapped.

Open to US artists over the age of 18. All visual artistic mediums are eligible, including 2-D and 3-D (sculpture), textile, and craft/traditional as well as any style: landscape, abstract, figurative, and collage. No larger then 24×24

Art can be mailed, dropped off, or picked up at a mutually convenient time (for local artists). Art will be juried and you will receive a response within two weeks. Halo Arts Project accepts a maximum of 3 works.

Angels for Artists: Artist Benefits

  • Three Peoples Choice Awards: 1st $100, 2nd $50, and 3rd $50.
  • The artists whos work sells for the highest bid receives $1,500 cash award.
  • Gallery showing from January 1st to January 24th at the John Sims/Halo Arts Project Gallery, 1639 Tenth Street, Sarasota, Florida 34236
  • Exposure to hundreds of art-loving attendees and local philanthropists, recognition on the Halo Arts Project website and social media channels, network broadcast media, as well as in email blasts and the online event art catalog.
  • Feature in the Angels for Artists Art Catalog includes donated artwork, artists statement, and contact information.
  • Complimentary admission to Angels for Artists event on Sunday January 25, 2026 at SRQ Waterworks, Sarasota Florida. A fun-filled opportunity to purchase over 75 works from nationwide artists.

All works must be donated to the Halo Arts Project. 100% of the proceeds of the art sales goes to help fund the Halo Fellowship Awards of $5,000 each to visual artists in Florida.

Your donation is tax deductible as allowed by law, You will receive a tax receipt from Halo Arts Project after the event with the name of the recipient (if they choose to share their contact information). Halo Arts Project is a registered 501 (c) 3 non-profit Federal Tax ID #85-8017865519C-3

“As a 2024 recipient of the Halo Fellowship Award I know how impactful the award can be …so today I’m submitting two paintings to their upcoming Angels for Artists fundraiser.” Beck Lane, Artist

About Halo Arts Project

Halo Arts Project’s, founded in 2018, core values are to embrace diversity, support a diverse range of visual artists and their social concerns, applaud innovation and challenges, and strive to work with artists as they establish their roles as part of a larger community of artists, deriving a sense of purpose, aesthetic or social.

Halo Arts Project’s community events help support the Halo Fellowship Program available to visual artists. The Angels for Artists Art Auctions are benefits designed to encourage artists to participate and donate and for the public to purchase.

For more information, contact info@haloartsproject.com

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