Compete The Grandeur of Color
Opportunity Description
U.S. National Deadline: October 31, 2025 – The MVA Gallery (Modern Visual Arts) invites artists, photographers and sculptors of all levels to submit original artwork to this exhibition.
Color is everywhere and it is a powerful influence on human perceptions, emotions and behavior. Artists use of color is very personal — whether intellectual or intuitive, purposeful or accidental, traditional or experimental.
People have preconceived ideas of the relationship of colors to specific objects. Some artists beautifully depict this perceived reality. Other artists inhabit a subjective universe where color is relative. They can creatively transfer shapes and transform objects to reconstruct reality through the grandeur of color.
We invite you to show us your interpretations and personal visions. They can be realistic or imaginary, representational or abstract. This is an “Open Call” with no restrictions on subject matter or style. Anything goes, so let’s celebrate Color!
Exhibition Dates: February 25, 2026 – March 25, 2026.
ELIGIBILITY
The MVA Gallery accepts painting, watercolor, printmaking, mixed media, digital, pastel, encaustic, sculpture, fiber, drawing and photography.
- Artists should not submit any images of art previously included in an exhibit of the MVA Gallery. Previous acceptance into one of our shows does not constitute acceptance into future shows.
- No reproductions, modifications or derivatives of original art (or copyrighted images) of other people’s work will be accepted. The artist should be the sole owner of all rights.
- Artwork must look professionally finished and be ready for secure installation. All art must be equipped with stretched WIRE attached to the back. (Sawtooth hangers are not acceptable.) Artwork without a wire will not be displayed. The Gallery will consider framed PAINTINGS or paintings with gallery wrapped (finished) edges. Of course, mixed media and digital pieces are sometimes unframed (but must have an attached wire).
- Shipped artwork using standard glass poses a risk and is not advisable. Plexiglass is preferred. Artwork with glass that arrives in cracked / shattered condition will be pulled from the exhibit.
- ART should not be larger than 48 inches (framed) on the longest side and not weigh more than 45 lbs. SCULPTURE should not be larger than 28 inches on any dimension.
- PHOTOGRAPHS should be framed (48 inches maximum) if you wish a traditional presentation. Black or white frames are preferred. Mats, when used, should be white or off-white only. Other types of mounting (not framed) will be considered. All photographic processes are welcome
AWARDS
Art of Distinction Award will be granted at most exhibitions. One artist, photographer or sculptor will be selected and featured in a special exhibit at the MVA Gallery, Exhibition Room 2, to be scheduled at a future date.
One New York City Exhibition: One artist, photographer or sculptor will be selected from all the individuals who were accepted and displayed in an MVA Gallery exhibit during the past calendar year. This artist will be offered an exhibition opportunity in New York City and will be notified in December.
Director’s Choice Award – $200 optional award may be granted at the discretion of the Executive Director of the MVA Gallery.
ENTRY FEE
Entry fee is $35.00 for 3 images. You may include additional files for $5.00 each up to a total of 9 maximum.
APPLY ONLINE
Visit us for complete details and easy online application.
Notification to Artists: On or about November 18, 2025 (Midnight). Notification by email.
SALES
Artists can determine whether they wish to sell their artwork. For sales, the artist must list a specific price and not indicate “Upon Request.”
Commission Fees:
70% of the final sale price to the Artist.
30% of the final sale price to the Gallery.
About:
The MVA Gallery (Modern Visual Arts) is located in historic Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Bethlehem, along with its neighboring cities Allentown and Easton, comprise the third largest metropolitan area in Pennsylvania (after Philadelphia and Pittsburgh). Bethlehem has a vibrant arts and cultural life — numerous active art galleries and nationally acclaimed festivals that attract tens of thousands of visitors each year. Located one hour from New York City, Bethlehem has become an art destination for informed collectors and prominent art professionals.
MVA Gallery
35 E. Elizabeth Avenue, Suite 35
Bethlehem, PA 18018
ph: 610-936-0737
