Compete MVA Gallery Exhibition: Portraits
Opportunity Description
U.S. National Deadline: August 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.
Artists may submit traditional or non-traditional imagery of a single individual, a couple or a group. The artistic intention may be to present an idealized, neutral, psychological, satirical, celebratory or cultural impression while capturing the behavioral characteristics of personality or inner life of emotions.
The Gallery also welcomes “environmental portraits” showing individuals in their surroundings that provide insight into their character. Distorted or surreal portraits also are fascinating. And, of course, please submit self- portraits whether formal or informal (such as a selfie).
Exhibition Dates: January 24, 2027 – February 21, 2027.
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, ink, sculpture, fiber, drawing and photography.
Artists, photographers and sculptors are encouraged to submit art in any style and technique. No restrictions.
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.
Honorable Mention– Artists in this category will be granted free submission to a future exhibition at 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 by email on or about November 12, 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
Instagram: @mvaartgallery
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