UnMasked: Contemporary Portraiture

UnMasked: Contemporary Portraiture is a National Juried Competition and Exhibition at the Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences in Long Beach Island, New Jersey. The exhibition explores the theme of removing masks—both literal and figurative—to reveal a deeper vision of the subject and extend the tradition of portraiture. Work may include self-portraits or portraits of others, with or without additional objects or elements.

Eligible artwork includes Drawing, Painting, Mixed Media, Collage, digitally created work, and 3D constructions that can be wall hung. Artwork created through printmaking processes or photography will not be considered. Entries must have been created within the last two years and not previously shown at LBIF. Two-dimensional works should not exceed 60 inches in width and height, and not exceed 15 lbs. Three-dimensional work should be wall mounted or displayed on a 10" deep wall mounted shelf. All work must be suitably framed, firmly wired, and professionally presented. Retail value should not exceed $7,500.

The competition is open to artists 18 years and older residing in the continental USA. Entry fee is $35.00 for up to 3 entries. Submissions must include 1-3 images (JPEG or JPG format, 1200 pixels or greater on the longest side, under 5 MB), plus a one-page artist statement, bio, or resume. The juror is Dr. Jessica Todd Smith, Susan Gray Detweiler Curator of American Art at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Awards include $500 first prize, $250 second prize, $100 third prize, and three honorable mentions, announced at the reception on Friday, July 22, 2022. The exhibition runs July 16 - August 14, 2022. All accepted work must be available for the duration of the exhibition and is for sale; LBIF retains a 40% commission on all sales. Artists do not need to attend the reception to receive awards. Contact: [email protected] or 609-494-1241.