Totally Open: An International Open-Theme Exhibit Opportunity

Manifest Creative Research Gallery, a Cincinnati-based 501(c)(3) non-profit arts organization, invites visual artists and designers internationally to submit works of art with no specific theme. Open to all traditional and non-traditional genres and media, including 2D, 3D, and more.

Manifest's curatorial approach for this exhibition reverses their typical process: rather than establishing a theme before the call, they will discover the theme (or multiple themes) through the curatorial process after receiving submissions. Works will be juried by an anonymous panel of professional and academic advisors, with final selections made by the exhibit curator. The exhibition will be on display March 6 – April 3, 2026, and Manifest Press will produce a high-quality hard-cover publication documenting the season's exhibits, artists, and works.

Eligibility is open to everyone internationally with no limitations. Entry fee is $10 per entry (unlimited entries; fees are non-refundable). Each participating exhibitor receives a $50 honorarium. A $9,000 Grand Jury Award recognizes one exhibited work annually, with an additional $1,000 award to one work during each of nine exhibition periods. Artworks are not required to be for sale but will be available for sale during the exhibition unless marked NFS; Manifest Gallery retains a 30% commission on sales. Works will be insured while on gallery premises against theft, vandalism, and damage caused by gallery patrons or staff.