About the Open Call

Bridgeport Art Center's 14th Annual Juried Art Competition accepts a broad range of media and styles from artists 18 and older living or working within 150 miles of Chicago. Jurors Monica J. Brown and Kimberly Oliva will select finalists for an exhibition in the 4th Floor Gallery from May 15 to June 26, 2026. Cash awards total over $5,000, including a $3,000 Best of Show prize. Work must have been completed between 2023 and 2026. Functional art and time-based media such as video or sound are not eligible.

What is Offered

Cash prizes: Best of Show ($3,000), 2nd Place ($1,500), 3rd Place ($750), 4th Place ($250), 5th Place ($150), and People's Choice ($500), plus an exhibition opportunity.

Requirements

Artists must be 18 years or older and live or work within 150 miles of Chicago. Work must be non-functional and non-time-based (no video, sound, or film). Artworks must be hand-delivered to the center; shipped works are not accepted. Work must have been completed within 2023-2026.

How to Apply

Apply online via Slideroom at https://bridgeportart.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/87760. The early deadline is March 23, 2026 ($35 application fee) and the final deadline is March 30, 2026 ($45 application fee).