Portraits -- Human and Animal (2025)

The MVA Gallery (Modern Visual Arts) invites artists, photographers, and sculptors of all levels to submit original artwork to this exhibition. This is a national call for entries.

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 half-length or full-body pose. The artistic intention may present an idealized, neutral, psychological, satirical, celebratory, or cultural impression while capturing behavioral characteristics or 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 domesticated or wild animals. Capture images of pets in their preferred environment that reveal their unique personalities, or show wildlife in their natural habitat. A person may be included to explore human-animal interaction.

Styles and Mediums: Artists are encouraged to submit work in any style—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 with black or white frames preferred. Plexiglass is preferred over standard glass.

Awards: An "Art of Distinction" Award will be granted, featuring one artist in a special exhibit. One artist will be selected for an exhibition opportunity in New York City from all accepted artists displayed in MVA Gallery exhibits during the past calendar year. A Director's Choice Award of $200 may be granted at the discretion of the Executive Director.

Important Dates: Entry deadline is January 11, 2025 (midnight MST). Notification to artists on or about February 27, 2025. Accepted artwork must arrive by April 7, 2025. Exhibition dates are April 11 through May 9, 2025. Artwork will be returned May 13-17, 2025.

The MVA Gallery is located in historic Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, one hour from New York City. Artists are responsible for all shipping and insurance costs both to and from the gallery. A prepaid return shipping label must be enclosed with all shipped work.