Here’s the latest SoCal Art Open Calls

NOMAD

Summary: “The Torrance Art Museum is now accepting applications for NOMAD, a three-day pop-up exhibition on August 7–9, 2026. NOMAD is a community-focused event where Southern California artists showcase recent work, connect with peers, and engage a wider audience. The exhibition highlights the region’s diverse 2D and sculptural talent and emphasizes creative exchange, collaboration, and relationship-building. This year, NOMAD will take place at Del Amo Crossing (21535 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503), an open-plan concrete-floor space in the heart of the South Bay. Over 150 artists are expected to participate. The event will also feature TRYST, an international art fair spotlighting alternative galleries and artist-run initiatives.”
Deadline: Applications remain open until all spots are filled
Location: Del Amo Crossing, Torrance
Exhibition Dates: 8/7/26 - 8/9/26
Mediums: All
Entry Fee: No fee

The Santa Paula Society of the Arts 87th Annual Art & Photography Exhibit

Summary: “Our 87th Exhibit is coming soon to the Blanchard Community Library! Artists are invited to enter up to three pieces in the following categories: Oil/Acrylics; Pastels; Watercolors; Mixed Media; and Photography.”
Deadline: 4/15/26
Location: Blanchard Library, Santa Paula
Exhibition Dates: 4/21/26 - 5/14/26
Mediums: Oils & acrylics, watercolor, pastels, graphics/mixed media, photography
Entry Fee: $35

Abstracts

Summary: “Abstracts asks artists to dig deep into the inner workings of the mind, expressing a visual language of shape, form, texture and color.”
Deadline: 4/18/26
Location: Escondido Arts Partnership, Escondido
Exhibition Dates: 5/9/26 - 6/5/26
Mediums: All
Entry Fee: Members: $20 for one, Public: $30

San Diego Watercolor Society’s Out ‘N About Plein Air Exhibition 2026

Summary: “The goal of the 2026 SDWS Plein Air Exhibition, “Out ‘n’ About”, is to showcase the Plein Air artwork of water-based media artists, both locally and abroad. This exhibition is open to SDWS members and non-members. The juror will award cash prizes and award three paintings as Best Local depiction of the San Diego area.”
Deadline: 4/25/26
Location: San Diego Watercolor Society Gallery, San Diego
Exhibition Dates: 7/1/26 - 7/31/26
Mediums: Water-based media
Entry Fee: Members: $45, Non-members: $55

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

Note From the Publisher- This newsletter serves as a curated list of exhibition opportunities for artists in Southern California. SoCal Art Opportunities is not affiliated with these opportunities and is not involved with the organization of these opportunities. For any questions concerning the opportunities listed in this newsletter, please reach out to the hosting organizations directly.