OPEN CALL PROGRAM
Open Call for Artists – NYC Group Exhibition 2026
Van Der Plas Gallery’s Open Call Program is a rolling artist open call in New York. Artists are invited to submit work for a small fee for consideration in upcoming gallery exhibitions. Submissions are open year-round across all mediums.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Van Der Plas Gallery is now accepting submissions for our 2026 NYC Open Call exhibition in New York City’s Lower East Side. This NYC open call for artists provides exhibition opportunities for emerging and established contemporary artists in New York City. Emerging and established artists working in all media are invited to apply for this juried group exhibition opportunity at one of downtown Manhattan’s historic contemporary art galleries.
This program is part of the gallery’s longstanding commitment to showcasing new voices in contemporary art. We welcome both emerging and established artists to submit their work, which is reviewed thoughtfully and carefully by our curatorial team. A small application fee is required to submit work, and all submissions are considered in the context of our broader exhibition program, ensuring that all work receives attention and the opportunity to be part of thoughtfully curated group exhibitions.
Selected artists will be invited to participate in professional exhibitions at the gallery, benefiting from a platform that amplifies their work and connects them with the vibrant New York art community. Beyond exhibition placement, participating artists gain critical exposure, documentation, and the potential for future opportunities within the gallery, including solo shows, special projects, and collaborations.
Our Open Call Program is open to all media—painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, mixed-media, and beyond. We seek work that demonstrates originality, conceptual depth, and artistic vision, while reflecting the diversity of contemporary practices.
*Please Note
Applications will be considered complete only after the $35 application fee has been received.
WHY APPLY
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Continuous Opportunity: Submissions are reviewed year-round, giving artists ongoing visibility and the flexibility to apply when ready.
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Curatorial Attention: Each submission is carefully reviewed by our team, ensuring thoughtful consideration rather than automated selection.
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Professional Exposure: Selected works are showcased in gallery exhibitions promoted to collectors, curators, and media, amplifying visibility in the contemporary art world.
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Longstanding Commitment to Emerging Artists: For over a decade, Van Der Plas has championed new voices, providing them with a platform to reach a wide audience.
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Community Engagement: Artists join a dynamic network, gaining potential access to future exhibitions, solo projects, and collaborative opportunities.
HOW IT WORKS
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Artists submit up to 4 works through the online application form
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Submissions are reviewed on a rolling basis by the curatorial team
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Selected artists are contacted directly for inclusion in upcoming exhibitions
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All submissions are carefully considered in relation to the gallery’s exhibition program.
SUBMISSION GUIDLINE
We accept submissions from artists working in all mediums, including but not limited to:
painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, installation, and mixed media.
To apply, please include:
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Artist name and contact information
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Artist bio or statement
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Up to 4 works (images or PDF)
We look for originality, conceptual clarity, and strong artistic vision.
FAQ
Who can apply?
Artists at any stage of their career are welcome to apply. We accept submissions from both emerging and established artists working in all media.
International artists are welcome to apply; however, all shipping, delivery, and return arrangements, as well as associated costs, are the responsibility of the artist.
How often are submissions reviewed?
Submissions are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year. There are no fixed deadlines, which allows us to continuously consider new work for upcoming exhibitions.
What happens if I’m selected?
Selected artists will be contacted directly and invited to participate in a future exhibition at Van Der Plas Gallery. Details regarding timing, artwork, and installation will be shared at that time.
Is there a guarantee of exhibition?
Submission does not guarantee placement in an exhibition. However, all work is carefully reviewed and considered for future programming.
What does the $35 fee include?
The fee covers the time and labor involved in reviewing each submission, as well as administrative coordination and planning related to exhibitions. It also supports the broader operational costs of running a physical gallery and producing shows.
Why isn’t the submission free?
We understand that fees can be a concern. Running a gallery and organizing exhibitions involves real, ongoing costs—from staffing and review time to installation and promotion. The submission fee allows us to maintain a consistent, fair review process and continue offering opportunities like this year-round. Without it, sustaining the program at this level wouldn’t be possible.
Can I submit more than once?
Yes, artists are welcome to submit new work at any time. Each submission is reviewed independently.
How often will exhibitions be held?
The Open Call Program is designed to produce several exhibitions each year. Typically, 4–5 group shows annually allow us to provide regular opportunities for artists while maintaining high curatorial standards and a strong audience turnout.
ABOUT VAN DER PLAS GALLERY
Founded in New York City in the 1980s, Van Der Plas Gallery has exhibited emerging and established contemporary artists with a focus on downtown culture, outsider art, street art, painting, sculpture, and experimental practices. Located in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, the gallery continues to support artists through exhibitions, public programming, and recurring open call opportunities.
