Compete Light & Shadow: Reality or Illusion
Opportunity Description
U.S. National Deadline: March 31, 2026 – Opposition of light and shadow can emphasize or diminish three-dimensional space and accentuate or conceal the shape of objects. The interplay of contrasting light patterns also can reinforce or obscure the theme and mood of artwork. These dramatic effects of variation in illumination can mislead the eye and confound the mind. Reality collides with illusion. Great possibilities for creating exciting art!
How does the dynamism of light counterbalance the expressive shadows in your art? Do you augment realism or articulate abstract forms or introduce ambiguity? Do you establish atmospheric effects and manipulate tonal values to develop a clear narrative or a mysterious one? Do you enhance or distort structures, objects and persons through a selective creative process?
Whatever your artistic approach — spontaneous or controlled, traditional or experimental, simple or complex — we welcome your participation. This exhibition offers significant creative freedom since there are no restrictions on subject matter, style or technique. We are open-minded and are excited to see your art. Please join us!
Exhibition Dates: July 29 – August 28, 2026.
ELIGIBILITY
This is a National Call for Entries inviting artists, photographers and sculptors from all regions and states. Artists must be 18 years of age or older and current residents of the United States.
The MVA Gallery accepts painting, watercolor, printmaking, mixed media, digital, pastel, encaustic, sculpture, fiber, ink, drawing and photography.
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.
On or about May 27, 2026 (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
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