Compete Portraits (2026): Human & Animal
Opportunity Description
U.S. National Deadline: January 31, 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.
Human Portraits: Artists may submit traditional or non-traditional imagery of a single individual, couple or group. Artwork may show a close-up of a face or the physical attributes of a person in half-length or full-body pose. The artistic intention may be to present an idealized, neutral, psychological, satirical, celebratory or cultural impression while capturing the behavioral characteristics of personality or the inner life of emotions.
The Gallery also welcomes “environmental portraits” showing individuals in their surroundings that provide insight into their character and life, thereby creating a personal pictorial narrative. These portraits may also reveal a personal or alter ego. And, of course, please submit self-portraits whether formal or informal. The selfie is ubiquitous and can reveal fluidity of self-identity in a chaotic contemporary world. Through the diverse approaches of portraiture, artists can raise provocative questions about identity and perception.
Animal Portraits: The Gallery also invites portraits of animals, domesticated or wild. Capture pets in their preferred environment — at home or on the farm, at rest or at play — that reveal their unique personalities. (A person may be included to explore human-animal interaction.) Or wildlife photographers and artists can show us extraordinary creatures in their natural habitat. Surprise us with dramatic imagery of animals in the jungle, forest, sky, garden or ocean who exhibit aggressive, docile, quirky or humorous behavior. Artists may call attention to social issues, if appropriate, as they present the beauty and fragility of Nature.
Exhibition Dates: June 18 – July 18, 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.
Artists, photographers and sculptors are encouraged to submit artwork in any style or technique. No restrictions. We are excited to see your interpretations. Please join us!
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 March 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
ph: 610-936-0737
