About the Open Call

Chicago’s Palette & Chisel Academy of Fine Arts is pleased to announce an annual art exhibition and competition dedicated to showcasing and awarding upcoming talent in the world of representational art. The show aims to select work by emerging artists that demonstrates an excellent command of foundational skills while following a distinct and personal creative instinct. The exhibition includes events like artist talks and demos to spark conversation and creativity.

What is Offered

1st Place: $600 plus art supplies; 2nd Place: $300 plus art supplies; 3rd Place: $100 plus art supplies; Michael Harding Artists' Choice Award; Month-long exhibition participation.

Requirements

Artists must be under 40 years old and reside in the United States. Eligible work includes 2-D representational art in any non-digital medium (no AI or giclée prints). Works must be for sale (30% commission to the gallery), framed, wired, and between 8"x10" and 30"x40" in size.

How to Apply

Submit high-quality images in JPG format through the ShowSubmit platform at https://showsubmit.com/show/pnc-emerging-artists-show-2026. Artists can submit up to 20 artworks.