About the Open Call

The 14th Annual Bridgeport Art Competition is a juried exhibition open to artists in various media. The competition accepts a broad range of styles but excludes functional pottery, jewelry, clothing, accessories, furniture, and time-based media (video, sound, film). Finalists will have their work exhibited in the 4th Floor Gallery and are eligible for cash awards. All accepted work must be hand-delivered; shipping is not permitted.

What is Offered

Awards: Best of Show ($3,000), 2nd Place ($1,500), 3rd Place ($750), 4th Place ($250), 5th Place ($150), and People’s Choice ($500). Includes a gallery exhibition from May 15th to June 26, 2026.

Requirements

Artists must be 18 years or older and living or working within 150 miles of Chicago. Work must have been completed between 2023 and 2026. Functional art and time-based art are ineligible. Shipped artworks are not accepted; accepted artists must hand-deliver work to the venue.

How to Apply

Submit applications via the Bridgeport Art Center SlideRoom portal at https://bridgeportart.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/87760. Early application fee of $35 applies until March 23rd; final deadline fee is $45 until March 30th.