Compete Celebrating Photography
Opportunity Description
U.S. National Deadline: October 31, 2025 – The MVA Gallery (Modern Visual Arts) invites photographers (and photo collagists) of all levels (emerging to established) to participate in this exhibition.
Photographers are invited to share in this MVA Gallery special Celebration of Photography. There are no restrictions on subject matter, style or technique. A variety of approaches (traditional or experimental) will be accepted. Use any photographic equipment from sophisticated professional devices to commonplace smartphones. Whatever you like — pinhole cameras to large format to 35mm to advanced technological systems.
Exhibition Dates: February 25 – March 25, 2026.
ELIGIBILITY
This is national Open Call / No Theme exhibition.
- 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
- 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.
- 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 21, 2025 (Midnight). Notification by email.
All accepted artwork must arrive at the Gallery no later than February 20, 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
