Compete The Four Elements
Opportunity Description
U.S. National Deadline: June 30, 2026 – The MVA Gallery (Modern Visual Arts) invites artists, photographers and sculptors of all levels (emerging to established) to submit original artwork to this exhibition.
From ancient cultures to modern societies, The Four Elements — Earth, Air, Fire, Water — have provided various explanations about aspects of the material world, the forces of energy, and the attributes of human nature. The Four Elements had a profound influence on science, philosophy, religion, and medicine.
This exhibition theme creates opportunities for artists to explore a vast universe of imagery. Subject matter can range from commonplace to spectacular. Your art — whether lyrical or bold, colorful or muted, representational or abstract — can reveal the compelling concepts of The Four Elements.
Exhibition Dates: November 14 thru December 12, 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.
Do you have images showing — in part or in whole –EARTH (landscapes, gardens, cityscapes), AIR (sky, sunsets, rainbows, moon, planes, storms, hot air balloons), FIRE (blazing forests, burning buildings, bonfires, lightning, fireplaces), WATER (rivers, oceans, boats, storms, swimming, baptisms, waterfalls). Individuals, animals and structures may be included.
Any style and subject matter is welcome. You have limitless freedom. The MVA Gallery accepts painting, watercolor, printmaking, mixed media, digital, pastel, encaustic, sculpture, fiber, 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.
Notification on or about September 29, 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

