Here’s the latest SoCal Art Open Calls

Malibu Creek State Park’s Call For Artists

Summary: “Malibu Creek State Park is turning 50 and we are inviting you to help us celebrate through your art, words, and memories of this special place. Have you captured a special moment at Malibu Creek? Written a poem inspired by the landscape? Painted an oak woodland, photographed wildlife, or filled a sketchbook with observations from the trails or pools? We want to see it! As part of Malibu Creek State Park’s 50th Anniversary Celebration on September 26, selected works will be displayed in an outdoor community art exhibition woven into the landscape itself. Prompt: What has Malibu Creek taught you?”
Deadline: 8/10/26
Location: Malibu Creek State Park, Calabasas
Exhibition Dates: 9/26/26
Mediums: Photography, Paintings and drawings, Poetry, Field notes, Other creative prints inspired by Malibu Creek
Entry Fee: No fee

5th Annual Art After Dark

Summary: “The Riverside Community Arts Association (RCAA Gallery) is proud to announce the Call for Artists for the 5th Annual Art After Dark, taking place on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Barbara and Art Culver Center of the Arts in Downtown Riverside. This year's exhibition is a juried show open to artists throughout the Inland Empire and beyond. Artists may submit up to three artworks for consideration, with up to two pieces selected for exhibition. Art After Dark is an exciting evening celebrating art, culture, and community, bringing together artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts for a memorable night of creativity and connection.”
Deadline: 8/31/26
Location: Barbara and Art Culver Center for the Arts, Riverside
Exhibition Dates: 10/17/26
Mediums: All
Entry Fee: No fee

14th Annual Joshua Tree National Park Art Expo

Summary: “THEME: Artwork depicting or inspired by the unique natural aspects of Joshua Tree National Park or its cultural history. In addition to being selected for the juried exhibition, artists are eligible for cash awards totaling $4,000. All juried artists will be included in the exhibition catalog (print & online), with the artist’s bio, artwork image, and link to the artist’s website.”
Deadline: 9/1/26
Location: 29 Palms Art Gallery, Twentynine Palms
Exhibition Dates: 11/6/26 - 11/29/26
Mediums: All
Entry Fee: $35 for up to 3 artworks

West Coast Textile Arts

Summary: Escondido Arts Partnership is inviting West Coast regional artists to submit traditional, innovative, functional and non-functional works of textile arts to their juried show. Sculptural works, vessel forms/basketry, installations, clothing and more using materials such as papers, felting, fabrics, yarn and organic materials are accepted.
Deadline: 9/18/26
Location: Escondido Arts Partnership, Escondido
Exhibition Dates: 10/10/26 - 11/6/26
Mediums: Textile arts
Entry Fee: EAP Member: $20 for one, additional $5 for each piece. Non-members: $30 for one, additional $5 for each piece

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.