Digital Explorations

About the Open Call

Computer software and technology have forever expanded the ways artists capture and produce their work. Artists can weave together scenes in photoshop, produce paintings through a screen, create videos, animations, and projections that transport us to new worlds, and sculpt with a 3D printer. Maryland Federation of Art (MFA) invites all artists residing in any of the states or territories of the US, Canada, or Mexico to enter our 4th annual exhibition dedicated to digitally-produced art. Any original 2D or 3D image based work created and/or produced through digital software and following exhibition guidelines will be considered. This includes, but is not limited to digitally produced photography, digital painting, illustration, graphic design, digital video and projection. Works selected will be exhibited in MFA’s Circle Gallery from January 28 – February 28, 2026. Juror: Andy Holtin, Professor of Extended Media at American University. Awards designated by the juror total $1,000. Exhibition Schedule: Online Entry Opens Sept 23, 2025; Entry Deadline Nov 26, 2025; Notification Dec 17, 2025 @ 5 PM; Accepted and Shipped Work Arrive Jan 23-25, 2026; Exhibition Opens Jan 28, 2026; Virtual Awards Ceremony Feb 1, 2026 @ 4 PM; Last Day of Exhibition Feb 28, 2026; In-Person Reception Feb 28, 2026 @ 4-6 PM; Pick Up Hand-Delivered Work Mar 1-2, 2026; Shipped Work Sent Mar 8, 2026.

What is Offered

Exhibition opportunity at MFA's Circle Gallery, eligibility for awards totaling $1,000, and 70% commission on sales (75% for MFA Members).

Requirements

Open to all artists residing in any of the states or territories of the United States, Canada, or Mexico. Entries must be original works completed solely by the artist's hand and created within the past 3 years. A maximum of 6 original works may be entered. Work previously exhibited at MFA Circle Gallery is not eligible. Maximum size of work, including edges or frame, cannot exceed 72″ in any direction. Works must be for sale (Price on Request is an option).

How to Apply

Online Entry Opens for Submissions. Refer to the downloadable prospectus (Digital-Directions-2026-Prospectus-vf.pdf) for detailed instructions on how to enter.