ARTIST OPPORTUNITIES: WEEK OF OCT 16
We’re all busy, so here’s the SHORT LIST for the best professional contemporary artworld opportunities this month:
• Nars artist residency - due oct 23
• Nars Exhibition Opportunity - due oct 23
• Loewe Craft Prize - Due Oct 24
• LA Artist Grant - Due Nov 6
• National Portrait Gallery Outwin Competition - Due Jan 26
• Torrence Art Museum Residency (cali) - due Feb 24
Want to know how to make the best of open calls? Watch our video on getting more opportunities and how to win open calls here
This free resource was produced in partnership with Public Art For Racial Justice Education.
WATCH MORE FREE VIDEOS ON MAKING YOUR ART CAREER WORK FOR YOU HERE
WHICH OPPORTUNITY IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
With countless artist opportunities and open calls available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one that aligns with your goals and artistic vision. Fear not! In this blog post, we will explore some valuable tips to help you identify the perfect artist opportunity tailored for you.
Define Your Artistic Goals: Before diving into the sea of opportunities, take a moment to define your artistic goals. Are you looking to exhibit your paintings in a gallery, participate in a residency program, or collaborate on a public art project? Understanding your objectives will help narrow down your search and focus on opportunities that resonate with your artistic direction.
Evaluate Eligibility and Requirements: Every opportunity will come with specific eligibility criteria and requirements. Pay close attention to the submission guidelines, deadlines, and any other prerequisites. Make sure your style, medium, and concept align with the theme or purpose of the opportunity to increase your chances of being selected.
Consider the Scale and Exposure: Think about the scale and exposure the opportunity offers. Some opportunities might be smaller and intimate, providing you with a chance to connect with a niche audience and receive personalized feedback. On the other hand, larger events or art fairs might offer more visibility and exposure to a broader audience, potentially leading to significant career advancements.
Budget and Costs: While some opportunities might be free to apply, others may come with application fees, material costs, or travel expenses. Be mindful and plan a budget for which opportunities you will apply to this year.
Past Participants' Experiences: Do some research on artists who have previously participated in the opportunity or open call you are considering. Reach out to them if possible and inquire about their experiences. Learning from their insights can provide valuable perspectives to help you make an informed decision.
When it comes to applying for artist open calls, Erika B Hess suggests considering the benefits of paid opportunities over free ones. While free open calls may initially seem attractive due to the absence of application fees, they often attract a massive number of submissions, leading to fierce competition. On the other hand, paid open calls tend to have fewer applicants, increasing the chances of your work receiving the attention it deserves.
Trust Your Instincts: At times, you might come across an opportunity that resonates with you on a deeper level, even if it doesn't perfectly match your initial criteria. Trust your instincts and follow your heart. Art is a form of self-expression, and sometimes taking a chance on an opportunity that feels right can lead to unexpected breakthroughs.
In conclusion, finding the right artist opportunity and open call involves careful research, introspection, and a dash of courage to step out of your comfort zone.