Here’s the latest SoCal Art Open Calls

Belonging to Nature: Art and Memory in the San Fernando Valley

• Summary: “Esperanza is a social justice organization that accomplishes comprehensive community development in South Los Angeles. Our upcoming exhibition, Belonging to Nature: Art and Memory in the San Fernando Valley, centers the work of Japanese-born artist Keiji, whose four series—A Lady in Her Wheelchair, From My Window, My Neighbors, and San Fernando Valley—explore caregiving, grief, belonging, and a profound belief that we do not own nature; we belong to it. We welcome submissions of Japanese cultural objects that complement these themes, honor cultural expression, and enrich the exhibition through diverse artistic interpretations.”

• Deadline: 11/30/25

• Location: Mercado La Paloma, Los Angeles

• Exhibition Dates: 12/2/25- 2/22/26

• Mediums: “Must be an object originating from Japanese craft or folklore. Some examples include: wood kokeshi dolls, daruma dolls, ceramics, embroidered kimonos, large origami figures, Japanese fans, and sashiko embroidery, among others.”

• Entry Fee: No fee

Emerald Hills Park Public Art Project

• Summary: “The City of San Diego is seeking applications from interested qualified artists to provide public art services for the Emerald Hills Park Public Art Project.  An artist or artist team is sought to design, fabricate and transport permanent, site-specific artwork for the park improvements and consult during installation of artwork at the site by the City. Art Budget: Approximately $70,000”

• Deadline: 12/22/25

• Location: Emerald Hills Park, San Diego

• Mediums: Permanent public art

• Entry Fee: No fee

Alma Querida, (Dear Soul) 

• Summary: “Ask yourself the following question, what moves my soul? This open call is a love letter to your soul, inviting you to tap into any medium and show us those exact things that get your soul moving. It can be the passions that ignite your creativity, callings that give you a sense of purpose, or strong feelings that move you to action. If this question reminds you of what your soul has been missing, then reconnect with those things and share that with us through your art! We want to peek into what, or who, shapes your soul.”

• Deadline: 2/9/26

• Location: South Gate Art Gallery, South Gate

• Exhibition Dates: 4/18/26 - 6/6/26

• Mediums: All

• Entry Fee: No fee

The Fantastical World of Wearable Art

• Summary: “Curated by A. Laura Brody and Lisa Tomczeszyn. This is a call for wearable art, dipping into the world of fantasy, costume design, and fashion ideas that merge and float between art, fashion, and craftsmanship.”

• Deadline: 2/15/26

• Location: Los Angeles Makery, Los Angeles

• Exhibition Dates: 4/2/26 - 5/26/26

• Mediums: Wearable art

• Entry Fee: $20

9th Annual PROUD+

• Summary: “The 9th Annual PROUD+ Exhibition will be held June 19 - July 31, 2026, during San Diego Pride Month, showcasing the work of LGBTQ+ artists from across the country. Produced by The Studio Door, this national exhibition celebrates the unique perspectives and voices of the LGBTQ+ community through contemporary art.”

• Deadline: 5/9/26

• Location: The Studio Door, San Diego

• Exhibition Dates: 6/19/26 - 7/31/26

• Mediums: “Painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, assemblage, collage, mixed media, fiber art, artist book, and sculpture. Please note some restrictions apply to glass, stained glass, ceramics, and stoneware due to unsafe shipping practices by FedEx, UPS, and USPS. Oversized jewelry that can be defined as fine art is acceptable for this show.”

• Entry Fee: $35

To view previously listed calls that are still open click HERE.

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-Brittany