The Power of Portraits -- Human and Animal

The MVA Gallery (Modern Visual Arts) invites artists and photographers of all levels to submit original 2D artwork to this exhibition. The call welcomes human portraits in traditional or non-traditional styles, including single individuals, couples, or groups shown in close-up, half-length, or full-body poses. Submissions may present idealized, neutral, psychological, satirical, celebratory, or cultural impressions. Environmental portraits showing individuals in their surroundings are welcome, as are self-portraits and explorations of persona or alter ego. The gallery also invites animal portraits—domesticated or wild—capturing pets in their preferred environments or wildlife in natural habitats. Artists may explore human-animal interaction and may address social issues through imagery of animals. All representational or non-representational styles are encouraged, including realistic, abstract, surreal, cubist, and expressionist approaches.

Accepted mediums include painting, watercolor, printmaking, mixed media, digital, fiber, drawing, and photography. All artwork must be 2D, professionally finished, and ready for secure installation. Framed pieces must be equipped with stretched wire; gallery-wrapped paintings are acceptable. Artwork should not exceed 48 inches (framed) on the longest side and must weigh no more than 45 pounds. Photographs should be framed with white or off-white mats and black or white frames preferred. All images must be submitted as JPEG files under 5 MB with a minimum of 1200 pixels on the longest side.

Entry fee is $35.00 for 3 images, with additional images available for $5.00 each up to 9 maximum. The entry deadline is January 22, 2022. Artists will be notified by January 25, 2022. Accepted artwork must arrive at the gallery by February 8, 2022. The exhibition runs February 11 through March 5, 2022. Awards include First Prize ($400) and Second Prize ($200). 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 are responsible for all shipping costs and insurance. A prepaid return shipping label must be enclosed with artwork; pieces without labels will be considered abandoned. The gallery will not assume liability for loss or damage to artwork.