Viali Art Competition 2023

The Viali Art Competition is open to emerging Canadian artists age 18 and older producing paintings or sculpture. Submissions are accepted from September 15, 2023 through January 31, 2024. Entry fee is US $40. Artists may submit up to two pieces, with one image required for two-dimensional work and up to two images for three-dimensional work. Artworks must be less than two years old, entirely the work of the entrant, and not copies or derivatives of other copyrighted or published work. High-resolution photos of each work are required, showing only the artwork without frames or extraneous backgrounds. Artists must also submit a short artistic statement of less than 1000 characters.

Eligibility requires applicants to be emerging artists not yet represented by a gallery, at least 18 years old, and Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada. An emerging artist is defined as someone in the early stage of their art career who has progressed beyond "hobby artist" and taken steps to establish a career in art. They do not need formal training but may be full-time or part-time art students or individuals who pursued art later in life.

The competition features first, second, and third-place awards in both painting and sculpture categories, for a total of 6 awards and 20 honourable mentions. Award amounts are $3000 for first place, $2000 for second place, and $1000 for third place. Awards will be announced May 31, 2024. All entries are posted on the VAC website and published in the VAC exhibition catalogue. Award winners and honourable mentions receive art market business coaching and exhibition opportunities. All sales are commission-free, with artists receiving 100% of sales revenue. The competition is judged by founder and art expert Linda Price-Bennett on the basis of originality, creativity, adherence to the artist's statement and intention, quality, and virtuosity of technique.