Opportunities

The application for Small Works 2026 is open as of July 15th, 2026, with a deadline of September 15, 2026.
The Small Works exhibit will showcase a diverse array of miniature masterpieces from local and regional artists, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship in a compact format. Each piece, no larger than 12 inches in any dimension, challenges artists to distill their vision into a compact format, resulting in a diverse and compelling display. The exhibit will offer an intimate viewing experience, encouraging close inspection and appreciation of the intricate details and unique styles that make each work of art a standout.

Best of Show | $500
2nd Place | $300
3rd Place | $200
Honorable Mention | $100
Peoples' Choice | $50 + Georgetown Art Center Membership

For more information and to apply, visit https://visit.georgetown.org/georgetown_art_center/for_artists/small_works.php

Deadline: 09/15/26
Location: Georgetown, TX
Website: https://visit.georgetown.org/georgetown_art_center/for_artists/small_works.php

Ten Moir Gallery invites artists and photographers worldwide to submit work to our rotating online art challenges. Each challenge is centered around a unique theme and gives artists the opportunity to share meaningful, creative work in a curated online showcase.

Open to artists 18 and older, our challenges welcome painting, drawing, photography, digital art, mixed media, collage, sculpture, and other visual art forms. Selected artists may receive online showcase placement, digital certificates, social media promotion, newsletter features, artist spotlights, interviews, cash awards, and additional visibility through Ten Moir Gallery.
We are looking for artwork that tells a story, explores emotion, captures a moment, or offers a fresh perspective. Whether your work is bold, quiet, experimental, abstract, or deeply personal, this is an opportunity to place your art in front of a wider audience.

Awards may include:
Cash awards, curated showcase placement, artist interviews, mini spotlight features, homepage features, social media promotion, newsletter features, digital certificates, and additional visibility through Ten Moir Gallery.

Eligibility:
Open worldwide to artists 18+. All experience levels and visual art mediums are welcome.

Copyright:
Artists keep full copyright. Images may be used only for challenge-related promotion, online showcases, artist features, and Ten Moir Gallery announcements.

Entry Fee:
First entry is free during the listed free entry period. Additional entries may be submitted for a fee.

Deadline:
Ten Moir Gallery hosts rotating themed art challenges throughout the year. Deadlines vary by theme. Artists are encouraged to visit the current monthly challenges page for the most up-to-date open calls, deadlines, awards, and entry details.

Apply Online:
https://www.tenmoirgallery.com/art-competitions-open-call/

Deadline: 01/01/27
Location: Online
Website: https://www.tenmoirgallery.com/art-competitions-open-call/

Spellerberg Projects is inviting proposals for month-long solo and duo exhibitions in 2027 and 2028.
We are an artist-run gallery and studio located in Lockhart, Texas, approximately 40 miles from Austin. Our mission is to showcase a diverse array of contemporary art to the public and support both emerging and established artists by providing a platform for them to exhibit their work. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where artists can experiment and grow in their practice, while also building a community that appreciates and supports contemporary art.

Eligibility
We invite artists of all backgrounds who are currently based in the United States, or who will be based in the United States during 2027–2028. We welcome submissions in any visual medium from individual artists or duos (we are not accepting larger groups). There is no application fee.

In-person attendance at a reception in Lockhart, Texas is strongly encouraged but not required. Artists who have exhibited with us in the past three years are not eligible. Previous applicants are warmly encouraged to reapply.

Events for our upstairs space, such as a performance, screening, workshop, pop-up, or talk, are accepted year-round with no deadline. If you are proposing an event, consider applying instead through our Programs Call.

Deadline
October 2, 2026
apply
To make sure our gallery is the right fit for you, review our Exhibition Procedures:https://spellerbergprojects.com/calls/exhibition-procedures/
Complete the Online Application Form: https://spellerbergprojects.com/calls/exhibitions-call/
If you have any questions, please get in touch with us via email: marty@spellerberg.org.

Deadline: 10/02/26
Location: Lockhart, TX
Website: https://spellerbergprojects.com/calls/exhibitions-call/

Leave your mark on history.

The National Juneteenth Museum is seeking one Texas artist to help tell Fort Worth’s Juneteenth story through the design of the city’s inaugural Freedom Bell.

Inspired by local history, community narratives, and the enduring significance of freedom, the selected design will be cast into a functional bell and become part of the Museum’s permanent collection.

Three finalist artists will each receive a $700 honorarium to develop a design proposal. From those proposals, one artist will be awarded a $3,000 commission and will participate in the guided creation of the inaugural Freedom Bell.

Applications close August 23, 2026. Learn more and apply here:
https://nationaljuneteenthmuseum.org/juneteenth-freedom-bell

The National Juneteenth Museum was invited by the Freedom Bell Project and its partners, Texas A&M University and Brad Oldham Sculptures, to participate in this historic project.

Deadline: 08/23/26
Location: Texas
Website: https://nationaljuneteenthmuseum.org/juneteenth-freedom-bell

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is establishing a new training academy in Florence, Texas, scheduled for completion in Fall 2027. To commemorate the move of the new academy, the Training Operations Division (TOD) is seeking a qualified contractor to create artwork for custom “commemorative” hat boxes that DPS will then have manufactured, with the goal to have a separate and unique image for each of the four hat boxes. The contractor’s artwork will be used by a box manufacturer and printed onto 15.5” x 18” cardboard boxes fabricated to hold the hats.

Deadline: 08/20/26
Location: Austin, Texas
Website: https://www.txsmartbuy.gov/esbd/405-26R0015190

Recognizing the impact that travel can have on an artist’s career, the Dorothy Antoinette LaSelle Foundation has established the Dorothy Antoinette LaSelle Travel Fellowship. In the fall of 2026, two awards of $5,000 each will be distributed to artists working and residing in the state of Texas, enabling the recipients to complete a research trip to further their artistic practice.
Applications open: August 3, 2026
Applications close: August 31, 2026
Awardees notified: November 2, 2026
Awardee Eligibility Criteria:

1. Must currently reside in the state of Texas and have lived there for the past year
2. Be a practicing professional with at least 3 solo or group exhibitions in the past 3 years.
3. BFA and juried exhibitions are eligible.
4. Must currently hold a degree in the arts
5. There is no application fee.

Deadline: 08/31/26
Location: Texas
Website: https://www.lasellefoundation.org/travel-fellowship

Call for Art: COMMON GROUND ART FEST
Contracommon is accepting applications for our second annual Common Ground Art Fest: a high-impact, one-day celebration of emerging talent in Central Texas.
We are in search of vendors, musicians, artists, pop-ups, performers, and all other creatives who want to make this day great! Musicians and performers should contact Contracommon via email or instagram.
KEY INFO

• This is an outdoor event
• Saturday, October 24th, 2026 from 11am-5pm
• Open Call posted: July 31st, 2026
• Open Call closes: August 31st, 2026
• Free application
• $50 booth fee / $50 tent rental (optional)
• Review: September 1st - September 18th
• Artists notified: by September 19th, 2026
• Vendor agreement due: within 48 hours of email
• Load-in begins: 9:30am
• Load-out begins: 5:00pm

Deadline: 09/01/26
Location: Hill Country Galleria Central Plaza 12700 Hill Country Blvd Bee Cave, TX, 78738
Website: https://www.contracommon.org/upcomingevents/2026/common-ground-open-call

The Enso Circle is a 12-week virtual residency for artists seeking focus, encouragement, and meaningful creative community. Residents meet weekly on Zoom for conversation, reflection, and practical guidance while developing an individual body of work in their own studios. Ongoing connection through Slack, weekly prompts, and personal check-ins provides structure without pressure. The residency concludes with a professionally designed digital catalog celebrating each artist’s work and growth. Open to artists working in all media and at every stage of their creative practice. Founded by Lyn Belisle and Michelle Belto, the Enso Circle is celebrating its fifth year of nurturing creativity, connection, and artistic growth.

Deadline: 08/31/26
Location: Virtual
Website: https://www.theensocircle.com/

The Candace Freeland Photography of Merit Award honors the legacy of photographer Candace Freeland, who gave the founding gift for this heartfelt outreach to youth and young adults.

2026 Guidelines
U.S. photographers aged 8-22 are invited to submit black-and-white and color photos captured on a smartphone, based on the theme Food and Family. There is no fee to enter. All finalists will be required to provide proof of age and eligibility, i.e. a photo ID, driver's license, birth certificate, etc.

Distinguished jurors select a Grand Prize Winner and Runner-Up for each category. There will also be a People’s Choice Award that will be voted on by the public. Cash prizes awarded to winners in different categories. All participants are invited to attend a reception announcing the winners at The Mitford Museum on October 9, 2026.
Rules, regulations, and prize information can be found on website.

Location: United States
Website: https://themitfordmuseum.org/meritawards/
Deadline: 09/01/26

Calling all writers to submit to Moonlight and Mawazo: A science fiction and fantasy short story contest lighting a path for diverse authors and characters to create universes of imagination.
RULES & ELIGIBILITY
This competition welcomes submissions from writers of all races, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, etc. We want and value diverse voices. With that said, we will be keeping a special eye out for stories that feature often unseen, unheard characters both on the pages and at the pen (keyboard) who can fully embrace the spirit of “Moonlight and Mawazo”.

1. All participants must be 18 years of age or older.
2. All submissions must be in English.
3. Contest entries are accepted from anywhere in the world.
4. Submissions must be original science fiction or fantasy. No fanfiction will be accepted. No submissions featuring explicit sex or violence will be accepted. No poetry will be accepted. This work must never have been published in any format. AI IS NOT PERMITTED .
5. All submitted material must be owned by and submitted by the writer.
6. Co-authors are accepted, but only 1 prize will be awarded.

Deadline: 08/31/26
Location: Contest entries are accepted from anywhere in the world.
Website: https://www.moonlightandmawazo.com/

Texas Arts & Music Festival committed to showcasing and supporting local artists. Once again, the festival’s opening reception will feature our Annual Juried Art Show. Texas-based artists of all experience levels are encouraged to apply for the art show.
A panel of professional, impartial artists, including this year’s featured muralists will evaluate each piece before the reception.
Awards:
First Place - $300
Second Place - $150
Third Place - $75
During the show, participating local artists may offer their work for sale.
Dates to Remember:
Applications Open: Now
Application Deadline: September 1
Artist Notifications: September 11
Artwork Exhibition: October 1- 31

Artist Reception: October 16
All artwork must be suitable for public viewing by audiences of all ages. Explicit, violent, or otherwise offensive subject matter will not be accepted. See all restrictions and guidelines at https://www.texasartsandmusicfestival.com/art-show/

Deadline: 09/01/26
Location: Brenham Heritage Museum
Website: https://www.texasartsandmusicfestival.com/

Request for Qualifications
Texas A&M University seeks an exceptional professional artist or artist-led team to create a monumental, site-specific public artwork for the Aplin Center, a landmark hospitality and experiential learning facility opening in spring 2028. The Aplin Center is a 211,724-square-foot, three-story facility—one of the largest mass timber university buildings in the U.S.—housing a campus Welcome Center, event venues, hospitality and food science labs, and student-operated retail and dining spaces.

This high-profile commission offers the opportunity to create an iconic cultural landmark at one of the nation’s largest public universities. The selected artwork will anchor a new front door to campus and serve as a powerful symbol of welcome, community and the Aggie spirit.

Phase One will be an open call for applicants to submit their qualifications to be considered. Finalists advancing to Phase Two will be provided with more information and instructions.
Please see the website for the full call.

Location: College Station, TX
Website: https://aplincenter.tamu.edu/
Deadline: 10/31/26

Texas students in grades K-12 are invited to participate in the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality’s Take Care of Texas Student Art Contest. Entries are accepted from October 5, 2026 to December 18, 2026.

To enter, students must submit original artwork portraying ways to reduce waste. Winners and runners-up in each category will win cash prizes, and students in grades 11–12 are eligible for up to $2,000 in scholarships!

Artwork Requirements:

• Artwork must depict ways Texans can reduce waste.
• Artwork must include the phrase "Take Care of Texas" spelled correctly.
• Artwork must be submitted on an 8.5" x 11" piece of paper (landscape format is recommended).

To get the full list of requirements and learn how to submit your artwork, visit https://takecareoftexas.org/education/art-contest-rules

Deadline: 12/19/26
Location: Texas
Website: https://takecareoftexas.org/education/take-care-texas-art-contest

The Nacogdoches Arts Collaborative’s Falling Star Gallery is proud to announce an art competition and exhibition in honor of the 250th Birthday of the USA.

The idea came from the big brain of Terry (TL) Steed, who could quote the Constitution and tell you all about each amendment, including when it was ratified. When asked by his sister how to “do more than vote”, he said, “Well, you DO have an art gallery and America’s birthday is September 2026.”

An idea was born. Then in October 2025, TL passed after a brief illness. So the contest has become the TL Steed Memorial Constitution Competition & Exhibition: What the Constitution Means to Me. Before he exited, he donated the seed money for the prizes and suggested one of the jurors. First and foremost, TL would want you to read the Constitution and pick what moves you.

https://www.senate.gov/about/origins-foundations/senate-and-constitution/constitution.htm

DETAILS & RULES

Artists 16 and over are invited to enter original work in Falling Star Gallery’s “What the Constitution Means to Me” show, to be held August 22nd - September 19th, 2026. Entrants will choose a passage from the US Constitution (including the Bill of Rights and all amendments) and create a piece of art inspired by the passage.

Do NOT use current politicians blatantly. Clever artists can lay their thoughts between the lines. Any piece using images of politicians other than the founding fathers will find their pieces disqualified. No matter your politics, this contest is about the Constitution, which I think we all agree is dandy.

RULES

The gallery hopes to hang all entries that follow the rules.

1. There is a $20 fee to enter. Artists may enter a maximum of two pieces, but each must be entered separately.
2. Artists must register on our website www.nacartscollab.com/constitution, and pay their tax deductible fee using our Give Butter platform. If an artist does not have a computer or needs assistance, we will accept a hand completed entry form and $20 cash or check. Credit card payments only available on our website (which includes options for Paypal and Venmo). Questions? Contact our administrator at info@nacartscollab.com
   Please register as early as possible so we have an idea what’s coming.
3. Finished entries must be delivered by August 22nd, 2026. Attach the Art ID form, which includes name & title and the passage from the Constitution that inspired your art. Mailed entries will also be accepted, but must be received by August 1st. Mailed entries must be registered prior to mailing. Send to: Constitution Show, AL Steed, 403 County Road 821, Nacogdoches, TX 75964. Roundtrip postage is up to you. Please advise by email if you have mailed an entry.
4. Entries can be in any visual art form, 2D, 3D, written (such as poetry or song), or film (3 minute limit). However, any medium that requires a player or equipment, the equipment must be provided by you and will be returned at the end of the show. Any film, music or noisy piece will need headphones provided. The gallery owns a limited number of pedestals and easels.
5. Any AI will be disqualified.
6. Artwork must be ready to hang or display, wires, etc. Include any special instructions in writing.
7. Though we do not have specific size restrictions, please remember that the space is limited and anything that is huge better be spectacular to be included. It is our hope to include as many entries as possible in the exhibition.
8. This contest will be juried by members of the gallery’s exhibition committee and two attorneys involved in the arts. Entries will be judged based on creativity/uniqueness, interpretation of the theme, overall visual appeal.
9. Cash and other prizes will be awarded. A minimum of $600 in cash will be awarded to 3 top winners (1st-$300, 2nd-$200, 3rd-$100). There will also be a People’s Choice award based on visitor votes. It is possible there will be additional prizes based on sponsorship opportunities.
10. Your piece(s) can be for sale or not. You may retain ownership. IF it is for sale, the split is 40% to NAC, 60% to you, or you can donate your piece to NAC for sale or auction.
11. There will be both opening and closing receptions and the show will be open for viewing on Saturdays from 11am-4pm, or by appointment.
12. Winners will be announced August 15 at approximately 3:00pm.

NO GLITTER unless its REALLY ATTACHED, NO PERISHABLE ART,
No pornography (tasteful nudity ok), no hate talk of any kind and appropriate for high schoolers.

The address to deliver: 320 North street, Suite 307, Saturdays, 11-4 starting July 11th. Or by appointment, text 917-209-1050 or email info@nacartscollab.com. All delivered art must have an art form attached.

Register here: https://nacartscollab.com/constitution-show-registration

No obligation or liability is assumed by NAC in connection with the contest.

Deadline: 08/15/26
Location: Nacogdoches, TX
Website: https://nacartscollab.com/constitution-show-registration

Southside Education and Training Center (SETC) Public Arts Project

Issued by: Alamo Colleges District
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Submission Deadline: August 17, 2026
Contact Email: ecastillo34@alamo.edu

Overview
The Alamo Colleges District seeks artists or artist teams interested in creating, fabricating, and installing a site-specific exterior sculpture for the Southside Education and Training Center (SETC), a member of the Alamo College District. This Request for Qualifications (RFQ) will establish a pool of pre-qualified artists who may be invited to submit a full art proposal in our Request for Proposals (RFP) application in the fall.

About the Southside Education & Training Center at the Alamo Colleges District
The Southside Education and Training Center (SETC) serves as a workforce development hub that prepares individuals for careers in high-demand industries. Its programs include Information Technology, Healthcare, Advanced Manufacturing, Skilled Trades, Business and Professional Services, Transportation and Logistics, and other industry-recognized credential pathways designed to meet regional workforce needs. SETC supports a diverse community of learners, including recent high school graduates, working adults seeking career advancement, military veterans and their spouses, career changers, underemployed and unemployed individuals, and lifelong learners from a wide range of cultural, educational, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
As a catalyst for economic mobility and workforce development across San Antonio’s South Side and the greater Bexar County region, SETC connects residents with education, employer partnerships, and meaningful career opportunities. Through accessible training and industry-aligned programming, the center strengthens both the local workforce and regional economy while fostering opportunity, resilience, innovation, and lifelong learning. SETC stands as an important community asset that empowers individuals and responds to the evolving needs of area employers.

Eligibility
This call is open to all professional artists or artist teams with experience in creating public art installations. Artists from all backgrounds, cultures, and artistic styles are encouraged to apply. Local and Texas-based artists are especially encouraged to participate and incorporate their unique insights into the project.

Specific Eligibility Requirements:

• Are 21 years of age or older
• Have experience with public or institutional art
• Can demonstrate successful completion of completed projects of this scale
  All qualified applicants will be considered.
  Submission Requirements

Please submit the following materials as a single PDF document:

1. Artist Statement (1 page maximum):

○ Describe your artistic approach and any relevant experience working on public art projects, particularly those requiring public engagement.

2. Resume or CV:

○ Highlight previous public art, mural, or community-based work.

3. Portfolio:

○ Include 5–10 images of past public art projects with brief descriptions (title, date, location, size, materials, budget).

○ For each sample, if applicable, include the title, date, location, dimensions, materials used, budget, and your role in the project.

4. References:

○ Provide contact information for two individuals familiar with your work in public or commissioned art.

Submission Instructions
● Format: Submit all materials in a single PDF document.

● Email: Send your submission to ecastillo34@alamo.edu with the subject line: "RFQ Submission – [Your Name]".

● Deadline: All submissions must be received by August 17, 2026.

Selection Process
Submissions will be reviewed based on:
● Artistic Quality and Originality: Demonstrated through past work and artist statement.

● Experience: Ability to execute projects efficiently and on time, with experience in public, urban, or collaborative settings.

● Flexibility: Responsiveness to site-specific needs and changing urban conditions.

Artists selected through this RFQ will be invited to submit a full art proposal and art rendering.
Timeline (Subject to Change)
● RFQ Release Date: July 1, 2026

● Submission Deadline: August 17, 2026

● Notification of Selection: October 2026

● RFP Deadline (if selected): November 2026

Contact Information
For questions or additional information, please contact:
Dr. Eric Castillo
Associate Vice Chancellor for Arts, Culture, and Community Impact/San Antonio Peace Center
Alamo Colleges District
ecastillo34@alamo.edu

Deadline: 08/17/26
Location: San Antonio Texas
Website: https://www.alamo.edu/about-us/offices-departments/departments/arts-culture-community