OPEN CALL: CATS Exhibition + Exclusive Publication Edition

About the Open Call

Throughout art history, the cat has lingered at the edge of the frame—both muse and mystery. From the sacred feline deities of ancient Egypt to the quiet companions in studios and apartments around the world, cats have long held a singular place in the imagination of artists. They embody contradiction: fierce yet delicate, aloof yet affectionate, domestic yet wild. They demand nothing, but offer inspiration in abundance. This summer, we’re dedicating both an exhibition and a special edition of our magazine to exploring the timeless, curious bond between artists and cats. We invite submissions from all disciplines that reflect, respond to, or are inspired by the feline presence—literal or metaphorical. The online exhibition opens August 2025. Selected works will also be published in an exclusive limited-edition luxury magazine, available both in exquisite printed form and as a high-quality digital collector’s edition to be launched September 2025. In addition to the online feature and virtual exhibition launching in August 2025, we are producing a limited-edition luxury print issue to accompany the show, releasing in September 2025. Selected artists will be featured in: A luxury art magazine edition: Printed on high-quality silk paper with refined editorial design, available in a limited run for collectors, libraries, and galleries. A personalized collector’s hard copy: A bespoke edition signed with a personal dedication to the artist or reader, accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Inclusion—a meaningful keepsake and proof of participation in this curated issue. Each selected work will receive a full-page (or multi-page) spread, alongside a curatorial introduction and editorial context, ensuring your work is honored with the attention and sophistication it deserves. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a distinctive art publishing project that reaches a global audience of art lovers, collectors, and cultural institutions.

What is Offered

Selected artists will be published in a luxurious, collectible art book (a limited-edition premium publication—linen-bound, silk interior and beautifully designed—registered with ISBN and distributed globally in print and digital collector’s formats). Artists will gain international visibility through a curated online exhibition accessible to art lovers, collectors, curators, and critics. Every selected artist receives a full-featured spread and thoughtful editorial curation of their work. Connect with fellow creators and be part of an inclusive, worldwide network of artists. Featured artists will benefit from dedicated promotional content, newsletter features, and media outreach (social media spotlight + press visibility). Selected artists will be featured in a luxury art magazine edition and a personalized collector’s hard copy with a numbered Certificate of Inclusion. Each selected work will receive a full-page (or multi-page) spread, alongside a curatorial introduction and editorial context. Note: A selection fee of 40€ ($45) will be incurred only by selected artists; fee waivers are available upon request for financial challenges.

Requirements

Open to artists of all nationalities, both emerging and established. Submit 1-4 of your best artworks in good quality and high resolution (max. 5 MB in JPEG or PNG format). For writing, up to 4 pages in .doc, .docx or pdf. Artist Statement required. Bio required. Contact Information and social media/website links required.

How to Apply

Please send your submissions to barbagelatafoundation@gmail.com with the subject line "Cats Submission" no later than July 31st, 2025. Submit 1-4 of your best artworks in good quality and high resolution (max. 5 MB in JPEG or PNG format). For writing, up to 4 pages in .doc, .docx or pdf. Include a brief artist statement that provides insight into your work and creative process. Provide a short biography highlighting your interests, inspirations and professional achievements. Ensure your contact details and social media/website links are accurate for follow-up communication. Fee waivers are available upon request; include a brief explanation in your submission email.