BIG CITY vs SMALL TOWN

The MVA Gallery (Modern Visual Arts) invites artists and photographers of all levels (emerging to established) to submit original 2D artwork to this exhibition. The theme explores the contrast between big city and small town living: Which is preferable—living in a big city or a small town? Artists are invited to create visual narratives from these perspectives or images of city and town life in general. Submissions can be pictorial commentary, recollections, testimonials, neutral impressions, or fantasies in any style. The exhibition is especially appropriate for street photographers and painters of urban scenes. Show art that captures the essential attributes of big cities and small towns and how people respond—revealing culture and values, how people act and react to events, street pageantry, neighborhoods, work and play, affluence and poverty, children and elderly, quiet moments of loneliness, or joyful celebrations. Architectural structures, signs, and mechanical/electronic devices can highlight the evolving environment. Vistas of cityscapes and landscapes are welcome, as are intimate moments of honest emotion.

Accepted mediums include painting, watercolor, printmaking, mixed media, digital, drawing, and photography. Only 2D artwork will be included. All artwork must be professionally finished and ready for secure installation. Framed pieces must be equipped with stretched wire; sawtooth hangers and unframed work will not be accepted. Pieces should not exceed 45 inches (framed) on the longest side and must weigh no more than 40 lbs. Photographs should be framed with white or off-white mats only; black or white frames are preferred. Entry fee is $35.00 for 3 images, with additional images at $5.00 each up to 9 maximum. All images must be JPG format, under 5 MB, with a minimum of 1200 pixels on the longest side. Include title, medium, size, price, and year of completion with your submission.

The MVA Gallery is located in historic Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, part of the third largest metropolitan area in the state. Exhibition dates are October 29 through November 21, 2021. Artists will be notified of acceptance by October 12, 2021. Accepted artwork must arrive at the Gallery by October 26, 2021. All artwork must remain in the Gallery for the full duration of the exhibition. Artists are responsible for all shipping costs and insurance both to and from the Gallery and must provide a prepaid return shipping label. Awards include First Prize ($300) and Second Prize ($150). One artist selected from all accepted works displayed in MVA Gallery exhibits during the calendar year will receive an exhibition opportunity in New York City. Artists retain all rights to their work. For sales, the artist receives 70% of the final sale price and the Gallery receives 30%. National eligibility; artists must be 18 years or older and U.S. residents.