Portraits -- Human and Animal (2024)

The MVA Gallery (Modern Visual Arts) in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania invites artists, photographers, and sculptors of all levels to submit original artwork for this exhibition.

Human Portraits: Artists may submit traditional or non-traditional styles of a single individual, a couple, or a group. Images may show a close-up of a face or the physical attributes of a person in a half-length or full-body pose. The artistic intention may be to present an idealized, neutral, psychological, satirical, celebratory or cultural impression while capturing the behavioral characteristics of personality or the inner life of emotions. Environmental portraits showing individuals in their surroundings that provide insight into their character and life are welcome. Self-portraits, whether formal or informal, are encouraged.

Animal Portraits: The gallery invites portraits of animals, domesticated or wild. Capture images of pets in their preferred environment that reveal their unique personalities. Wildlife photographers and artists can show extraordinary creatures in their natural habitat. Artists may call attention to social issues as they present the beauty and fragility of nature.

Style and Mediums: Artists are encouraged to submit representational or non-representational art in any style including realistic, abstract, surreal, cubist, expressionist, or a synthesis of styles. The gallery accepts painting, watercolor, printmaking, mixed media, digital, pastel, encaustic, sculpture, fiber, drawing, and photography.

Submission Requirements: Submit 3-9 images via CAFE (CallForEntry). Entry fee is $35.00 for 3 images; additional images are $5.00 each. All images must be JPEG format, under 5 MB, with a minimum of 1200 pixels on the longest side. Include title, medium, size, price, and year of completion.

Artwork Specifications: Artwork must be professionally finished and ready for secure installation with stretched wire attached to the back. Maximum size is 48 inches (framed) on the longest side and 45 lbs. Sculpture should not exceed 24 inches on any dimension. Photographs should be framed in black or white frames with white or off-white mats. Plexiglass is preferred over standard glass.

Timeline: Entry deadline is January 7, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. MST. Artists will be notified on or about January 24, 2024. Accepted artwork must arrive by March 9, 2024. Exhibition runs March 14 - April 10, 2024. Artwork will be returned April 13-17, 2024.

Awards: One artist will be selected for an "Art of Distinction" Award and featured in a special exhibit. One artist accepted and displayed in an MVA Gallery exhibit during the past calendar year will be selected for an annual Grand Prize exhibition opportunity in New York City.