Open Artist Calls

We believe in celebrating creativity and providing opportunities for artists at every stage of their career. Each season, The Suffolk Center invites artists to submit work for select exhibitions and special projects that inspire, challenge, and connect our community through the arts.

Current Opportunities

Now Accepting Submissions For:

Splash: Honoring Virginia Waterways

Submission Deadline: Friday, July 2, 2026 at 11:59pm

On View: July 16 – August 20, 2026

Opening Reception: Thursday, July 16, 2026 from 5:30pm -7:00pm

Description:

Cool down this summer inside our galleries with an exhibition depicting the waterways of Virginia through the Visual Arts. Virginia has waterways with deep history and great sources of relaxation such as the Great Dismal Swamp, James River and the infamous Virginia Beach. Hampton Roads residents recognize how the waterways connect communities and their need to be preserved. Artists are invited to depict waterways (natural or manmade) in their artwork. Examples range from paintings of a bird on the river or friends and families lounging and playing at the beach or pool, a sculpture of a beach wave and/or photographs of restoring oyster reefs, crabbings and/or boats resting on the marina. All mediums are welcomed as well as artists of all ages (artists under 18 must get approval from their parent or guardian).

CALL TO ARTISTS!

Submission Status Notification by Email: Friday, July 3 2026, after 5:00pm, end of the day.

Accepted Artist Drop-off Dates*: Tuesday, July 7 – Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 10:00am to 5:00pm

Accepted Artist Pick-up Dates*: Friday, August 21, – Saturday, August 22, 2026 from 10:00am to 5:00pm (Limited pick-up time due to the Suffolk Center preparing for the Suffolk Plein Air Festival).

*If you would like to arrange a time to pick-up or drop-off earlier, later or simply have any questions, please contact the Visual Arts Manager, Nana Ferdnance via email nana.ferdnance@suffolkcenter.org or call 757-923-0003 ext. 108.

How To Apply

Applying is simple:

Review the guidelines for your chosen opportunity.
Submit through our online application form.
Prepare your artwork images, artist statement, and any additional materials requested.

Application deadlines and requirements vary — please check each call for details.

FAQ

Who can apply?

Artists of all backgrounds and experience levels are welcome.

Is there a fee?

No, applying and submitting is completely free. Vendor fees may apply for certain events. See event description for more information.

What media do you accept?

Visual art of various mediums- from painting to sculpture. If you have questions about a particular medium please contact Visual Arts Manager, Nana Ferdnance, at nana.ferdnance@suffolkcenter.org.

When will artists be notified?

Typically within 2-4 weeks after submission deadline.