PhotoSpiva 2025

PhotoSpiva is a national photography competition hosted annually by Spiva Center for the Arts in Joplin, Missouri. Founded in 1977, PhotoSpiva is the longest-running photographic competition of its kind in the U.S., with the objective to "present an exhibition of excellence in photography, celebrating the scope and vigorous activity of today's contemporary photographers." Selected work will be displayed from March 15 to May 3, 2025, at the Harry M. Cornell Arts and Entertainment Complex. This year's juror is renowned photographer David Hilliard. The exhibition will be accompanied by PhotoSpiva Kids, Spiva in Bloom, and the 1000 Words Poetry Event.

Photographers must submit 5 to 20 JPEG images in RGB color mode. Images should be sized with either width or height at approximately 1600 pixels while maintaining aspect ratio. There is no theme requirement. Submitted images must be the photographer's own original work and have never been exhibited at George A. Spiva Center for the Arts. Two-dimensional work derived from any photographic process—traditional, digital, or photo-based mixed media—is eligible. Three-dimensional work is not eligible. If selected, work must be printed, mounted on rigid backing, and matted. No accepted work may be framed, with the exception of metal prints. Matting instructions will be provided upon acceptance.

Entry fee is $40 for five images; each additional image costs $10. PhotoSpiva is open to amateur and professional photographers in the United States and its territories. Awards include 1st Place ($1,000), 2nd Place ($750), 3rd Place ($500), three Merit Awards ($150 each), and three Honorable Mentions ($100 each). All entrants will be notified of acceptance or declination via email during the first week of February 2025. For questions, contact Shaun Conroy at [email protected].