Compete An Artist’s Vision
Opportunity Description
U.S. National Deadline: September 30, 2025 – The MVA Gallery (Modern Visual Arts) invites artists, photographers and sculptors of all levels (emerging to established) to submit original artwork to this exhibition.
What are the distinguishing characteristics of your style? Are your images traditional or experimental or a synthesis of styles? What is the personal visual idiom that you have developed to influence a viewer’s thoughts and emotions? Using your technical skill, how do you transform ideas and inspirations into a unique image that reveals your artistic vision and truth? Please share your artwork so we can discover — and celebrate — your special talent. Any theme, style, or subject matter is welcome. No limitations; anything goes!
Exhibition Dates: January 14 – February 14, 2026.
ELIGIBILITY
This is national Open Call / No Theme exhibition. We are excited to see your art. The MVA Gallery accepts painting, watercolor, printmaking, mixed media, digital, pastel, encaustic, sculpture, fiber, drawing and photography.
- No reproductions 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.
- 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 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 one optional award may be granted at the discretion of the Executive Director of the MVA Gallery.
ENTRY FEE
Entry fee is $35.00. 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 11, 2025 (Midnight). Notification by email.
All accepted artwork must arrive at the Gallery no later than January 10, 2026.
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
