From Submission to Exhibition: How to Make Your Open Call Entry Stand Out
Introduction: Why Open Calls Matter
Open calls invite artists from all backgrounds and mediums to share their work without having to know someone “on the inside.” They level the playing field, allowing emerging and established artists alike to gain exposure, feedback and career‑building opportunities. At The Holy Art, our open calls have showcased thousands of artists in London, New York, Paris, Tokyo and online. This guide explains how to prepare a compelling submission and what happens after you apply.
Choose Your Strongest Work
The first step is deciding what to submit. When selecting pieces:
Highlight your signature style. Curators look for a cohesive vision, whether you paint abstract landscapes or shoot documentary photography.
Consider your medium. We accept painting, photography, printmaking, video art, installation, film, sculpture, mixed media, poetry, illustration and more. Choose pieces that represent your range while still feeling connected.
Think about scale and presentation. Large works are welcome, but remember shipping costs and framing requirements for physical shows. For digital exhibitions, high‑resolution images or video files are essential.
Craft a Clear Artist Statement
A strong artist statement helps jurors understand the intent behind your work. Keep it concise (one to two paragraphs) and cover:
Concept and inspiration: What ideas drive your practice? Are you exploring identity, environmental issues, or aesthetics?
Process and materials: Mention techniques or unusual materials that set your work apart.
Goals: Explain why you want to exhibit and what you hope viewers will gain from your pieces.
Use approachable language; avoid jargon that might confuse readers unfamiliar with contemporary art theory.
Prepare Professional Documentation
Visual documentation is your chance to make a lasting first impression:
Photograph artwork in natural light against a neutral background. Ensure colours are accurate and avoid harsh shadows.
Use a tripod to keep images sharp, and crop photos so the artwork fills the frame.
For sculptures or installations, include multiple angles and close‑ups.
Label files clearly (e.g.,
Lastname_Title_Medium.jpg) and follow any size or format requirements listed on the application form.
If submitting a video, provide a short clip or trailer that captures the essence of the piece. Include captions or a brief synopsis explaining what viewers will see.
Understand the Submission Process
At The Holy Art, we aim to make applying as simple as possible:
Submit for free. Initial entries have no cost. You only pay an exhibition fee if your work is selected.
Wait for jury review. Our team of curators and guest judges reviews every submission. We look for originality, technical skill and how well the work fits with the exhibition theme (which is typically open, giving you creative freedom).
Confirm participation. If selected, you’ll receive an invitation with all details, including exhibition dates, shipping instructions and fee information.
Prepare your work for display. For physical shows, artists are responsible for shipping; we can recommend reliable couriers and handle return packaging. For digital shows, you simply submit the final files and we handle the rest.
What the Exhibition Fee Covers
We often receive questions about the exhibition fee, so it’s important to clarify its purpose:
Venue and installation costs: Renting gallery space, installing work professionally and providing security.
Marketing and publicity: Graphic design, social media campaigns, press outreach and catalogue production to attract buyers, curators and critics.
Event staffing: Guest curators, gallery attendants and technical support during the exhibition.
Return shipping materials: Packaging, labelling and handling to ensure your work is safely returned after a physical show.
By paying the fee, you’re investing in a polished presentation and broad exposure. Many artists recoup this cost through artwork sales, commission opportunities or subsequent collaborations.
