Y’all already know that if you’re an artist you’re basically hustling as much as possible. I go through phases each couple of months where I’m constantly looking for opportunities. And then there’s time where I’m not looking at all. When I am looking I usually put aside an hour each day looking through call for arts/submissions on various websites. I then add those into my calendar so that I know when I should apply, if they’re charging, and other requirements.
Typically I try to apply to art calls that don’t charge a fee because let’s be real I’m already spending maybe a third of my paycheck on buying art supplies I’m running low on. Every once in a while if an opportunity seems to really click for me but they’re charging I will take the chance and pay. This is rare though because again I hate the idea that I have to pay someone just to consider my art with literally no guarantee that it’ll be accepted.
I would also suggest looking into smaller community based galleries that show work that is similar to yours. Or even small business that showcase local artists in your area every month. I’ve contacted a lot and only a few have gotten back to me but the few that have are offering to possibly show my work. It can happen. Even if your unsure about contacting a place shoot them an email, include some stuff about yourself and if they’re interested they will get back to you. Take the chance!
Some places I would suggest looking at when searching for artist calls are:
artsforla.org
theartguide.com
entrythingy.com
offthecost.com
artslb.org/resources/calls-to-artists/
cac.ca.gov
Also I follow the following hashtags on IG which will usually show calls I’m interested in.
#callforart #callforentries #artcall #callforsubmissions #callforartists
Another thing that comes into play is that often times I get opportunities without even looking. This happens because of the networking I have managed to do. Every teacher in undergrad goes on an on and on about how important networking is. And honestly I didn’t believe it until recently. But it’s important. Simply following someone with similar interests to you and them following you back on IG can result in opportunities for showing your work. So I would recommend making those connections with artists who think about similar themes to those in your own work. I would also suggest that if you see an artists opportunity that would fit for a friend you should tell them about it. This helps build your network, the more you come through for others the more they will for you.
Also don’t be worried if you aren’t constantly showing. Because trust me as many opportunities as I have gotten I’ve been rejected to twice as many. Rejection is part of the game. And it’s disheartening but it doesn’t mean your art sucks. It just means the opportunity wasn’t for you. Keep trying, keep pushing. Making art is the number one important thing. Showing work will come with it.