NAF2026 | OPEN CALL FOR VISUAL ART

For 25 years, Newark Arts Festival has not happened by accident. It has been built and sustained through care, collaboration, and a deep respect for the people and practices that shape Newark’s creative community. This year’s theme, On Purpose, reflects how this Festival is created and what Newark Arts Council values. Every artist, performer, and program is selected with intention. Every experience is thoughtfully developed and presented with rigor. We believe in the power of the arts to connect, inspire, and transform; and we are committed to supporting that work with integrity, responsibility, and care. From October 7 – 11, 2026, New Jersey's largest and longest-running arts festival invites local, regional, and nationally recognized artists to present bold, festival-only work that honors where we've been and shapes where we're going. Visual artists, performing artists, and programmers are all encouraged to apply. All applications must be submitted via Submittable. Incomplete applications will not be considered.