For an emerging artist it was always a challenge to break into the wide arena of the established art fraternity or the esteemed art galleries or international art shows. But fortunately, the scenario has changed in today’s hyper-connected art world. Now, artists can open the doors to international art competitions and shows that once took years to crack. For the newcomers in this art world, these opportunities are golden tickets to build credibility, connect with curators, and exhibit work beyond their local scenes. Nonetheless, the challenge remains to apply for online juried art shows in physical galleries or entering an art competition online.
In this blog, we’ll explore the easy ways as to how you can get ahead of other submissions in art competitions online. If you’ve already explored ace online galleries like TERAVARNA, you must know that online gallery presence will add more credibility to your portfolio as an artist.
This guide will help emerging artists to stand out and make a mark on a global stage.
Here you go –
1. Draft a Compelling Artist Statement
Start with a compelling artist statement along with your artwork. Your art speaks volumes, but your words will guide you to your artistic journey. Jurors in juried art shows often begin their review with the artist statement. So, make sure that you have a personal and authentic account to support your creative intention.
- Try to keep it within under 500 words so that there’s an outline from the start of your journey.
- Try to write in a simple and engaging way.
- Better if you can connect your message to the theme of the show, if applicable.
A well-written artist statement can deepen the emotional and conceptual impact of your submission.
2. Focus on Curating Your Online Portfolio
Your portfolio is the utmost important part while submitting to an online painting competition or international show. Focus on the curating aspect, so that it stands out from the clutter. Because in online juried shows, visuals are your first impression—so, make it count.
- Choose any best of 3 to 6 artworks of yours with strong thematically, or stylistically cohesive pieces.
- Make sure to use high-resolution and professionally scanned images with good lighting.
- Your portfolio should have a consistent voice while demonstrating range.
3. Understand the Theme of the Contests and the Judging Criteria
Every art competition online has its own style and preferences. You must research on the contest thoroughly;
- What is the theme of the competition?
- Does the theme align to your forte of art?
- Who are the jurors? What kind of work do they admire?
While you do the groundwork, you stand a better chance of being selected.
4. Professional Presentation is a Must
As an artist, you must know that presentation matters just as much in online contests as it does in a physical gallery.
- Name your image files properly with mention of year, theme, name of artwork, etc.
- Write concise artwork descriptions, if needed.
- Follow submission guidelines thoroughly.
Remember that sloppy artwork submissions will never get you to the desired results; you have a chance of getting eliminated. So, show some amount of professionalism.
5. Work with Contemporary Art Platforms
Emerging artists are gaining recognition by participating in contemporary art gallery online spaces and some of the best online art galleries like TERAVARNA. These platforms often host online juried shows that fetch global attention from worldwide viewers. The online spaces not only will showcase your art worldwide but will help you grow as an artist.
Watch out for:
- Online competitions hosted by reputable online galleries
- Check out call for artists with jurors from top art institutions
- Ensure the online art galleries also include promotional support
6. Be Genuine and Authentic: Do not Follow Trends Blindly
In the age of Facebook and Instagram, it’s tempting enough to follow the trends, but in juried art shows, you will find jurors preferring originality to anything trendy. Because authenticity will always have a lasting impact.
- Try to feature what makes your voice unique.
- Do not follow the popular trends blindly; set trends with your signature style.
- Try to be honest in your expression.
7. Promote Your Participation in Social Media
Once you get selected in any online art contest, you can promote your participation to boost your artist profile. Galleries notice artists who proactively engage with these opportunities.
- Share your participation news on social media and email newsletters.
- Tag the organizers and use competition-specific hashtags.
- Great if you can share some behind-the-scenes content showing your creation process.
8. Try & Keep Trying: Learn from Rejections
Remember that not always you’ll be lucky enough to get selected in juried art shows or contests. Even the best artists get turned down at some point of time. If you’re not selected:
- Re-evaluate your submission and see what you could improve.
- Do not lose heart! Keep trying till you crack the next show.
Your consistency and growth go hand in hand. So, think of rejections as milestones to success and the much necessary boost for the next big win!
In a Nutshell
To stand out in international art competitions is not a simple thing! It’s more than just talent—it’s about preparation, presentation, professional consistency, and genuine artistic voice. So, align your style with the expectations of juried art shows or an online painting competition. Explore some of the best and prominent contemporary art gallery online platforms like TERAVARNA, where emerging artists have fair chances to turn submissions into milestones. Browse the homepage of TERAVARNA and get a hang of it!
Why wait then? Start drafting a strong portfolio, craft your story, and dive into the world of art competition online. You are just a few steps ahead from the spotlight moment!