Open Call Galleries: When to Submit for Themed Exhibitions
Unlike galleries that accept rolling submissions year-round, these six galleries announce specific open call opportunities throughout the year with themed exhibitions and application deadlines. Artists interested in these venues should follow their announcements to catch submission windows when they open.
Geographic restrictions: Gallery Twist accepts New England artists only. Urban Arts Gallery accepts Utah artists only. Edgewood Orchard Galleries accepts artists from the USA and Canada. Gallery Nucleus and A Space Gallery accept submissions internationally. Gallery North does not specify geographic restrictions.
1 - Gallery Nucleus
Alhambra, CA (USA)
Follow us on social media or sign up for our newsletter to find out about our OPEN CALL exhibitions. We are generally looking for art related to comic books, animation, illustration, surrealism, and work that has a sense of narrative.
Art Form(s): Painting, illustration, mixed media
Art Themes: Gallery Nucleus focuses on narrative illustration and entertainment art. Based on their exhibition history and artist roster, they showcase work related to comic books, animation, illustration, surrealism, and artwork with storytelling elements. Past open call exhibitions have included themed shows celebrating animated series, video games, and pop culture properties. The gallery represents contemporary illustrated, graphic, commercial, and narrative art.
How Open Calls Work: Gallery Nucleus periodically announces open call exhibitions with specific themes throughout the year. These are typically group shows celebrating particular animated series, games, or artistic themes. When an open call is announced, artists submit work according to the specific requirements for that exhibition. Previous open calls have included themed shows with size restrictions and medium specifications that vary by exhibition.
Submission Method: Open call details including submission requirements, deadlines, and email submission addresses are announced through the gallery’s newsletter and social media channels. Artists must follow the specific guidelines for each individual open call. General inquiries can be sent to submissions@gallerynucleus.com.
About the Gallery: Gallery Nucleus opened in October 2004 and has been a gathering place for the art community in Alhambra. Located at 210 East Main Street, the gallery features two dedicated gallery spaces and a boutique bookstore/gift shop. Through exhibitions, artist panels, signings, and special events, Nucleus celebrates the illustrated arts, emphasizing animation, games, narrative art, and entertainment design. Gallery Nucleus also has a sister location, Nucleus Portland, which hosts similar programming.
Geographic Restrictions: Gallery Nucleus accepts submissions from both local artists and artists from abroad. The gallery exhibits work from national and international artists.
Important Notes:
Follow for Announcements: Open calls are announced periodically rather than on a set schedule
Curated Exhibitions: Many exhibitions are by invitation only; open calls are special opportunities
Newsletter Essential: Sign up for the newsletter to receive announcements about upcoming open call exhibitions
Theme-Specific: Each open call has unique requirements based on the exhibition theme
Response Policy: Due to high submission volume, the gallery will only contact artists if there is interest or an opportunity available
How to Stay Informed:
Newsletter: Sign up at https://gallerynucleus.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gallerynucleus/
Website for current exhibitions: https://www.gallerynucleus.com/events
General Submission Info: https://gallerynucleus.com/submissions
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2 - Gallery Twist
Lexington, MA (USA)
We are always open to discovering new artists and new artwork for our gallery shows. While some of our shows are by invitation only, we will often have an exhibition with an ‘open’ call for entries.
Art Form(s): All mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, mixed media, fiber arts
Art Themes: Gallery Twist has an eclectic aesthetic and seeks diverse work ranging from abstract to realistic. Based on their exhibition history, themes include contemporary and modern work across varied styles, subjects, and price points. Recent open calls have explored concepts like “Inspired” (examining sources of artistic inspiration), “Illumination,” “Fresh,” “Lyrical,” and “Lasting Impressions.” The gallery showcases work that appeals to a broad range of art collectors.
How Open Calls Work: Gallery Twist hosts approximately five themed exhibitions per year with open calls for entries. Each exhibition has a specific theme and deadline announced through their Artist Mailing List. Artists submit digital images for consideration, and selected artists are notified shortly after the deadline. The gallery typically requests 3-6 weeks between selection notification and artwork delivery to allow time for framing and preparation.
Submission Method: Digital image submissions are sent via email to info@gallerytwist.com. Images should be labeled with: name_title_media_size_price.jpg (example: ROSS_Inspiration_Monotype_15x15_$500.jpg). File size should be approximately 1MB. Artists typically submit images of 5 or more pieces, though fewer is acceptable. Include information about how work is framed or presented for gallery display if you haven’t shown with the gallery before.
About the Gallery: Gallery Twist is located at 1963 Massachusetts Avenue in Lexington, Massachusetts. The gallery features rotating themed exhibitions and represents an eclectic mix of artistic styles, mediums, and price points. Open calls allow both emerging and established artists to participate in curated group exhibitions. The gallery takes a 35% commission on sold work and does not charge submission fees. Works selected for exhibition are included in both the physical gallery display and the online version of the show.
Geographic Restrictions: New England artists only. The gallery specifically states that open call exhibitions feature New England artists exclusively.
Important Notes:
Join Artist Mailing List: Essential for receiving open call announcements with themes and deadlines
No Submission Fees: Free to submit work for consideration
Advance Planning: Typically 3-6 weeks between selection notification and delivery date
Extra Work Requested: Gallery often asks artists to deliver slightly more work than can be displayed to allow flexibility during installation
Exclusive During Show: Selected work should not be available in other venues (in-person or online) during the exhibition period
Pricing Consistency: Maintain consistent pricing across all venues including studio and online
35% Commission: Gallery commission on all sales
Current Open Call Example (as of February 2026):
Exhibition: “INSPIRED” - April 10 to May 10, 2026
Theme: Work showing diverse sources of inspiration with artist explanations
Deadline: February 24, 2026
Drop-off: March 19-20, 2026
Pick-up: May 14-15, 2026
How to Stay Informed:
Artist Mailing List: Sign up at https://www.gallerytwist.com/for-artists
Artist Submission Info: https://www.gallerytwist.com/for-artists
3 - Edgewood Orchard Galleries
Fish Creek, WI (USA)
We review new artist submissions each December and typically add five or six new artists each season.
Art Form(s): All mediums - the gallery represents diverse artwork including painting, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, glass, fiber arts, photography, and mixed media
Art Themes: Based on their roster of 150+ artists, Edgewood Orchard Galleries represents work across varied styles and subjects. The gallery showcases contemporary fine art and craft from emerging and established artists. The gallery is located in Door County, a popular tourist destination, and features work at multiple price points.
How Open Calls Work: Edgewood Orchard has an annual submission window from September 1 to November 15. During this period, artists email their current work for consideration. The gallery reviews all submissions received during this window in December, making final decisions and commitments for the upcoming gallery season. The gallery typically adds 5-6 new artists per season (sometimes more, sometimes fewer) from approximately 50-75 submissions received annually.
Submission Method: Email submissions are preferred and strongly encouraged. Send images of current work with a link to your website if available to info@edgewoodorchard.com. Each image should be identified with title, medium, dimensions, date completed, and retail price. Include your resume and any supporting materials that help introduce you and your artwork. Physical submissions via mail are discouraged.
About the Gallery: Established in 1969, Edgewood Orchard Galleries represents 150+ artists from across North America. The gallery is located at 4140 Peninsula Players Road in Fish Creek, Wisconsin, in the heart of Door County. The gallery operates seasonally (May through October) and focuses exclusively on representing current artists during the busy season. The winter months (when the gallery is closed to the public) are dedicated to reviewing submissions and planning for the upcoming season.
Geographic Restrictions: Edgewood Orchard accepts submissions from artists across North America. The gallery represents artists from throughout the United States and Canada.
Important Notes:
Annual Submission Window: September 1 - November 15 only
December Review: All submissions reviewed together in December for fair and professional consideration
Materials Held: Submissions received outside the window are held until the next December review cycle
Advanced Planning: Decisions made in December are for the following gallery season (May-October)
Quality Over Speed: Winter review period ensures thoughtful consideration when gallery staff isn’t managing daily operations
Multiple Factors: Decisions based on artwork quality, medium representation in gallery, price point, and audience fit
No Submission Fees: Free to submit
Email Only: Physical materials discouraged; email submissions preferred
Timeline:
September 1 - November 15: Submission window opens
December: Gallery reviews all submissions and makes decisions
Following May-October: Selected artists exhibit in upcoming gallery season
How to Stay Informed:
Newsletter: Subscribe at https://edgewoodorchard.com/subscribe
Website: https://edgewoodorchard.com
Artist Submission Info: https://edgewoodorchard.com/submission-process/
4 - Urban Arts Gallery
Salt Lake City, UT (USA)
The gallery showcases contemporary works by over 150 emerging and established Utah artists in the broad spectrum of street art to fine modern art.
Art Form(s): All mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, street art, mixed media, digital art, installation, and more
Art Themes: Urban Arts Gallery represents a broad spectrum of work inspired by city life and culture, ranging from raw street art to fine modern art. The gallery embraces contemporary styles including pop art, surrealism, graffiti, abstract, figurative, and diverse cultural expressions. Monthly themed exhibitions explore relevant social, cultural, and artistic topics. Recent themes have included “Spirit in Disguise” (masks), “Pop-Verse” (fanart), and other community-centered concepts.
How Open Calls Work: Urban Arts Gallery operates three ongoing exhibition programs, all accepting open submissions: (1) Monthly Connect Art Wall - rotating monthly display, (2) Monthly Thematic Exhibitions - curated around specific themes with open calls announced through their website and social media, and (3) Year-long Artist in Residence spaces. Artists submit work online through the gallery’s website under “Artist Opportunities.” Selected artists are chosen through a community-juried selection process, making this a uniquely artist and community-driven gallery. The gallery has no submission fees.
Submission Method: Submissions are accepted through the gallery’s website at urbanartsgallery.org under the “Artist Opportunities” section. Specific submission requirements and deadlines vary by exhibition and are posted when each open call is announced. Artists can also participate in the monthly Connect program held on the second Friday of each month (February-November, 6:30-9:00 PM), where artists bring up to two pieces of any medium for critique, voting, and networking. Connect winners have opportunities to participate in annual Connect Finals with cash prizes.
About the Gallery: Urban Arts Gallery is a non-profit art venue operated by the Utah Arts Alliance since February 2013. Located at 116 S Rio Grande Street in The Gateway mall in downtown Salt Lake City, the gallery has been voted “Best Gallery in Utah” by City Weekly readers. The gallery serves over 600 artists annually and attracts approximately 25,000 visitors per year. As a non-profit, the gallery is committed to making art accessible with no submission fees and commission rates that favor artists. The space hosts exhibitions, artist talks, workshops, and live art demonstrations, creating a collaborative, community-centered atmosphere.
Geographic Restrictions: Utah artists only. The gallery specifically showcases work by Utah-based artists, both emerging and established, from across the state.
Important Notes:
No Submission Fees: Free to submit to all exhibitions as part of the gallery’s mission to make art accessible
Community-Juried: Unique selection process involving community voting
Connect Program: Monthly networking events (second Friday) where artists can show work, vote, and potentially win prizes
Artist-Friendly Commission: Gallery commission rates favor artists
Multiple Entry Points: Various ways to participate including monthly exhibits, Connect events, and artist residencies
Rolling Announcements: Check website regularly for new open call announcements
Recent Open Call Example (as of February 2026):
Exhibition: “Pop-Verse! A Fanart Collection”
Deadline: March 31, 2026
Exhibition Dates: May 4 - May 31, 2026
Theme: Fanart celebrating pop culture characters and worlds
How to Stay Informed:
Website: https://www.urbanartsgallery.org
Submission Platform: https://urbanartsgallery.submittable.com/submit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urbanartsgallery/
In-Person: Attend monthly Connect events to network and learn about opportunities
Artist Submission Info: https://www.urbanartsgallery.org/s/stories/artist-opportunities
5 - A Space Gallery
Toronto, ON (Canada)
A Space Gallery is accepting submissions to our Main Gallery for exhibitions in the 2026 and the 2027 seasons. This call is for artists working in all media and is also open to curatorial proposals.
Art Form(s): All media including painting, sculpture, photography, installation, video, audio, performance, mixed media, and new media
Art Themes: A Space Gallery is an artist-run centre that showcases contemporary art across all themes and styles. As one of Canada’s oldest artist-run centres (established 1971), the gallery features work by emerging and established artists working in experimental, conceptual, and contemporary practices. The gallery is open to both solo artist exhibitions and curatorial proposals for group shows.
How Open Calls Work: The 2026 deadline is June 6 for exhibitions taking place in the 2026 and 2027 seasons. The gallery accepts both artist proposals for solo exhibitions and curatorial proposals for group exhibitions. Programming decisions take at least four months after the deadline. The gallery operates on a one-deadline-per-year system, making advance planning essential for artists interested in exhibiting.
Submission Method: Digital submissions only through the gallery’s website submission page, which opens approximately one month before the June 6 deadline. All materials must be submitted in a single PDF file of less than 1MB that is Macintosh accessible. No zip files accepted. If experiencing technical difficulties, update your browser to the newest version and ensure the file is under 900KB.
About the Gallery: Founded in 1971, A Space is one of the oldest artist-run centres in Canada. Located at 401 Richmond Street West in Toronto’s historic garment district, the gallery features 1,200 square feet of exhibition space with 120 linear feet of 10-foot high walls and 13-foot ceilings. The gallery pays artist fees according to CARFAC (Canadian Artists’ Representation/Front des artistes canadiens) standards, ensuring professional compensation for exhibiting artists. A Space is part of Toronto’s vibrant artist-run centre community and supports experimental and contemporary art practices.
Geographic Restrictions: Open to all artists internationally. A Space accepts submissions from artists working anywhere, though the gallery is located in Toronto and artists must be able to deliver work to the gallery.
Important Notes:
Annual Deadline: One deadline per year (2026 deadline is June 6)
Advanced Scheduling: Exhibitions scheduled for 2026 and 2027 seasons
Digital Only: No physical submissions accepted
Technical Requirements: Single PDF under 1MB, Macintosh accessible
CARFAC Rates: Gallery pays professional artist fees according to Canadian standards
Response Time: Minimum 4 months for programming decisions
Disposal of Materials: Submission materials disposed of appropriately after review
No Submission Fees: Free to submit
Required Submission Materials (all in one PDF):
CV(s) with contact information
Up to 10 JPEGs (combination of previous work and work intended for exhibition)
All images labeled with dimensions, media, title, and year
Link to 5-minute video/audio excerpt (if applicable)
100-word exhibition description
One-page artist or curatorial statement with detailed project description
List of technical requirements, equipment, and materials
Additional support materials (reviews, press) if available
PDF must be titled with first and last name
Timeline:
Approximately one month before June 6: Submission portal opens on website
June 6, 2026: Submission deadline
4+ months after deadline: Programming decisions made and artists notified
How to Stay Informed:
Website: https://aspacegallery.org
Check website in May for submission portal opening
Artist Submission Info: https://aspacegallery.org/call-for-submissions/call-for-submissions-main-gallery/
6 - Gallery North
Hailsham, East Sussex (UK)
We run approximately 6 exhibitions per year and are always interested to see new artist submissions for these. We work with a range of emerging and established artists at various stages of their careers.
Art Form(s): Predominantly painting, photography, and wall-based work across 2D and 3D spectrum. All mediums considered.
Art Themes: Gallery North showcases contemporary art across diverse themes and styles. Recent exhibitions have explored concepts like “Vanishing Place” (celebrating and challenging landscapes, habitats, and ecosystems), “Congregation” (gatherings and groups), and other thematic shows. The gallery works with both emerging and established artists at all career stages, representing varied artistic approaches from traditional to contemporary practices.
How Open Calls Work: Gallery North runs approximately six themed exhibitions per year, each with specific open call deadlines. Each exhibition has its own theme announced several weeks before the submission deadline. Artists submit up to three artworks via Google Form with images, dimensions, prices, and an artist statement. Selected artists are notified within one week after the submission deadline closes. The gallery also accepts general submissions outside of open calls via email to the Exhibitions Manager.
Submission Method: For themed open calls, submit through the Google Form link provided with each exhibition announcement. Upload examples of up to three artworks with dimensions, prices, and a short artist statement (maximum 500 words or one side of A4). For general submissions outside of open calls, email Exhibitions Manager Emma Donovan at artgallerynorth@gmail.com with details about your work, practice, and accompanying images.
About the Gallery: Gallery North is located at 70 High Street in Hailsham, East Sussex. The gallery operates as a community-focused venue with free entry for visitors. The gallery also runs wellbeing and community outreach art projects funded by the National Lottery Community Fund.
Geographic Restrictions: None stated. Artists must arrange delivery of work to the gallery in East Sussex.
Important Notes:
Hanging Fee: £15 single hanging fee if accepted (no submission fee to enter)
20% Commission: Gallery takes 20% commission on all sold works
Quick Turnaround: Notification within one week after submission deadline
Artist Responsibility: Artists must arrange safe delivery and collection of artworks during specified weeks
Mailing List Essential: Sign up to receive submission forms and exhibition announcements
Multiple Opportunities: Approximately 6 exhibitions per year means multiple chances to submit
Current Open Call Example (as of February 2026):
Exhibition: “Vanishing Place” - March 28 to May 9, 2026
Theme: Land and seascapes, habitats, ecosystems (urban, wild, natural, man-made)
Deadline: March 8, 2026, 9:00 PM GMT
Notification: Within one week after deadline
Delivery: Week before March 28, 2026
Hanging fee: £15 if accepted
2026 Exhibition Programme: Artists can submit to all exhibitions from March onwards. Join the mailing list to receive submission forms and details for each exhibition as they’re announced.
How to Stay Informed:
Mailing List: Email artgallerynorth@gmail.com to sign up
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gallery_north_hailsham/
Artist Submission Info: https://artgallerynorth.co.uk/artist-opportunities/
These six galleries differ from rolling submission venues in that they announce opportunities with specific themes and deadlines rather than accepting submissions year-round. Artists need to monitor each gallery’s communications channels to catch open calls when they’re posted.
Tired of spending hours researching submission opportunities?
Paid subscribers to Circus Living get:
Weekly posts with MORE vetted opportunities
Searchable database of 95+ verified submission opportunities (galleries, publishers, magazines, and more)
Complete archive of all past and future paid posts
See all published opportunities here: complete index