Call For Entries
Call for Curatorial Proposals
proposals due: June 1, 2023
apply today: Call for Entry.org
Art Works Downtown warmly welcomes curators to submit proposals for exhibition in Gallery 1337. Our goal is to provide engaging visual art experiences for the public, and we need diverse and creative perspectives. We’re seeking proposals that demonstrate professionalism, clear vision, and innovative concepts.
As a community-driven organization, we understand the visual-arts are an important benefit for society; but at the same time, exhibit production can be taken for granted. Art Works Downtown created this program to support curators financially and creatively, and we can’t wait to see your unique vision come to life. Thank you for considering us, we look forward to receiving your proposal.
Learn more here: Call for Entry.org
Exhibition dates: September 29–November 10, 2023
Application Fee: no cost
Submit your Proposal today: Call for Entry.org
Summary of Benefits
Stipends awarded to approved proposals. Up to $5,000
Curator may use the stipend to your own discretion
Exhibition advertising and promotions including staffing of the gallery during the exhibition. Public hours are Thu–Sat, 1–8pm
Provide Gallery 1337 to include, but not limited to, gallery design, installation, exhibit, and promotion.
Two receptions for the exhibit.
A positive and professional exhibition experience for everyone involved.
Examples from the exhibit archive
EcoArt: Envisioning Strategies and Solutions by Deanna Pindell in collaboration with Women Eco Artists Dialogue
Hope Is a Discipline by Marc Mayer
SHIFT curated by Tapestry Weavers West
ZENPOP curated by Marialidia Marcotulli
/ker/ curated by Sergio De La Torre and Fernanda Partida Ochoa
Ordinary and Technological Mediations curated by Victoria Heilweil
Restless Garden curated by Lauren Bartone
Veer curated by Theodora Mauro and Tracy Wheeler
The Art of Rock Legends curated by Bruce Burtch
Jeremy Morgan curated by Linda Samuels
Art Studio Residency: Call for Entries
deadline to apply: July 6, 2023
The Max Thelen Studio Residency provides a quality art space for an emerging artist to create artwork and receive community support. The Residency includes a free art studio for 12 months with many additional benefits. Ideal candidates live in the Marin/San Francisco/Oakland Bay Area and can commit to regularly making art and participating in the program activities.
Art Works Downtown offers a diverse mix of studio artists and mediums in the heart of the San Rafael commercial core for regular interaction with the public. The Max Thelen Studio is a located on the street-level of the AWD complex. Art Works Downtown believes that an emerging artist will stimulate new ideas among established AWD studio artists and vice versa. Our community will be better served as they recognize and understand the importance of supporting emerging artists in their career endeavors.
Benefits
Free art studio, including utilities, fees and operating costs
This residency does not include living accommodations
92 sq. ft., located in the main entrance hallway. Viewable Thu–Sat, 1–8pm.
An environment that is supportive and empathetic to the creative process
Solo exhibition in the Founders’ Gallery, which provides exhibition production experience
Waived fees for AWD membership and juried exhibitions
Representation on AWD’s newsletter, website, and social media
Exposure to large groups of visitors every month during the 2nd Friday Art Walk events
Scholarship granted for mandatory participation in Marin Open Studios
Exposure to exhibit procedures and processes
Exposure to the nonprofit arts organization operation
Eligibility
Applicants must live in reasonable commuting distance to San Rafael, CA
Applicants must be in the early to middle stage of their art career with a committed art-making practice
Visual artists will be considered
Calendar
Deadline to apply July 6, 2023
Award announced in August 1 2023
Studio Residency to commence in September 5, 2023 through August 30, 2024
Founders Gallery exhibition: August 10–September 28, 2024
To Apply: Apply through www.callforentry.org. Applicants will receive results via email.
No cost to apply
Application requirements include:
5 to 10 images (or up to 6 videos)
Up to 3,000 Word Statement introducing yourself as an artist and your artwork
Required questions:
A prime objective of the program is for the artist to regularly use the workspace. This is not a showcase studio, it is a work and display studio. How do you envision using the space?
How will an association with the Art Works Downtown artist community benefit you?
What are your career ambitions as an artist?
Name and contact information of 1–3 recommendations—an arts educator, gallerist, or arts professional is preferred.
Links to support materials such as a website.
Call for Entry.org Tips and Tricks
Internet browser:
To ensure credit card security, Call for Entry.org requires clients to use updated internet browsers (such as Firefox, Safari, and Internet Explorer). Before you begin using www.callforentry.org , make sure your browser is up-to-date by going to this website: http://browsehappy.com/. If you're version is not current make sure to update the software. If you are constrained by hardware limitations (example: old Mac's can't upgrade to new Safari), simply download a different, and current, browser. We recommend Firefox.
Image File format:
JPEG only, dimensions: No smaller than 1200 pixels on the longest side, resolution: 72 ppi/dpi, Size: 5 MB maximum. Make sure your images follow these parameters. If you are uploading an image and the process is taking a long time (longer than 5-10 minutes), your image is probably wrong. Unfortunately the CAFÉ message does not tell you this, it only says that it is loading and make take a while.
Learn more about CAFÉ.org image file requirements: www.callforentry.org/uploading-images-audio-and-video-files/
Free online image softwares to resize your image:
pixlr.com/editor
Applying for a call:
Uploading images to your “Portfolio” and applying to a call for entries are two different processes. When you apply for an exhibition you will need to choose entries from your Portfolio by checking little boxes next to the images. If you only have three images in your Portfolio, you must check the box for each entry to submit that entry.
Make sure to “PREVIEW” before checking out. Once you click “CHECK OUT” you can NOT change or correct your application.
Checking Out, Payment and Coupon Codes:
When you have looked at your application “PREVIEW” and you see all of your entry images, click “CHECK OUT.” This will begin the payment process. Follow the prompts to pay for your entries. Only credit cards are accepted. If you are an AWD Artist Member you can use your coupon code to receive an entry fee discount. Simply follow the prompts until it asks you for the Coupon Code (you will not see this right away). Then enter the code and proceed.
Philosophical Understanding:
We understand that the online application process can be frustrating and hope you will overcome technology to participate in our exhibitions. While the CAFÉ.org service isn't perfect, it is a very helpful service for AWD and artists alike. As you apply through this process, we encourage you to take a deep breath, think logically (not emotionally) and take your time to thoroughly read the prompts and consider the buttons. If you are digitally challenged, you may want to find someone who is comfortable with the digital realm. Offer them a cup of coffee, fresh baked bread or small payment for their time. Remember to give yourself time and be patient and calm.
How to Apply for Solo or Group Exhibitions
Art Works Downtown offers a variety of exhibition opportunities and programs. Select a gallery to learn more about the specific application and proposal process.