How to apply for art calls
A thoughtful submission starts with the right opportunity—not with uploading every piece in your portfolio.
By Jersey Art Finds · November 5, 2026
An art call is an invitation to submit work for an exhibition, competition, public project, or other creative opportunity. Each organizer sets its own process. Use this guide to prepare, then follow the specific call’s instructions.
1. Check whether the call fits your work
Read the full prospectus or entry guidelines before paying a fee or preparing files. Look for the theme, accepted media, location, age or residency requirements, and whether existing work or a new proposal is requested.
A strong fit is more useful than a large number of submissions. Choose work that answers the brief while still feeling like your own.
2. Note the dates and the total commitment
Record the submission deadline and time zone, notification date, delivery or installation dates, exhibition period, and collection date. A nearby exhibition may still require several trips.
- Check entry fees, framing, delivery, return shipping, and any sales commission.
- Read the organizer’s image-use, sales, and payment terms.
- Confirm you can supply the work for the full period. Ask the organizer about unclear requirements before submitting.
3. Select and photograph your work
Send only the number of images requested. Use sharp, evenly lit photographs with accurate color and a clean background. Keep the full artwork visible unless a detail image is requested. For three-dimensional work, use the views the organizer asks for.
Resize copies to the required dimensions and file size; keep your original high-resolution files. Avoid adding watermarks, borders, or labels unless instructed. If judging is anonymous, remove identifying information where requested.
4. Prepare your supporting information
- Artwork details: title, year, medium, dimensions, and price if requested. State whether dimensions include the frame.
- Artist bio: a short factual introduction to your practice and relevant experience.
- Artist statement: what you explore, how you work, and how the selected pieces relate to the call.
- Proposal: for a proposed project, explain the idea, materials, timeline, and budget if requested.
Respect word limits. Clear, specific language helps a reviewer understand the work; you do not need to make your statement sound academic.
5. Submit exactly as requested
Use the official portal or email address. Match the file naming rules, subject line, format, and image count. An example file name is Lastname_ArtworkTitle_01.jpg, but use the organizer’s convention if one is provided.
Review the complete form, test your links, and submit before the last minute. Save the confirmation, submitted files, and a copy of the terms.
For kids and teens
A parent, guardian, or teacher should review eligibility, consent, image-sharing terms, and submission instructions. Let the child create their own original work and use their own words when a statement is requested. Send personal information only through the organizer’s official process.
Your final submission checklist
- I meet the eligibility rules, and the work fits the brief.
- My images, file names, and artwork details follow the instructions.
- I understand the fees, sales terms, and delivery responsibilities.
- I checked the deadline and time zone.
- I saved a submission confirmation.
After you apply
Wait until the stated notification date. If no response arrives, send one polite inquiry. Acceptance may come with further paperwork or delivery instructions. If your work is not selected, keep a simple record and use the materials for the next suitable call; one selection decision does not define your work.