Submitting artwork to an exhibition is an important part of an artist’s professional practice. The artwork itself is central, but the way it is selected, photographed, and presented can also influence how a submission is received.
Here are six common mistakes artists can easily avoid when preparing an exhibition submission.
1. Choosing an Artwork That Doesn’t Fit the Theme
A strong artwork is not automatically the right choice for every exhibition. Before submitting, take a moment to consider the theme and ask whether your work genuinely connects with it.
Juries often review many submissions, so relevance matters. An artwork that clearly responds to the exhibition’s subject can make a stronger impression than a good work that feels unrelated to the theme.
2. Submitting a Poor-Quality Image
For many open calls, the jury sees a digital image of the artwork before anything else. A photograph that is dark, blurry, poorly cropped, or affected by reflections can make it difficult to evaluate the work accurately.
Use a clear, well-focused photograph with even lighting. Try to keep the colours and details as close as possible to the original artwork.
3. Not Reading the Submission Guidelines Carefully
Submission requirements are there for a reason. Accepted media, file formats, image size, dimensions, deadlines, and other requirements can differ from one exhibition to another.
A few minutes spent reading the guidelines carefully can prevent simple mistakes that could otherwise affect your application.
4. Sending Incomplete Information
The artwork is important, but the information accompanying it is part of the submission too.
Check that the title, medium, dimensions, artist information, and any requested description are complete and accurate. Avoid submitting in a hurry without reviewing the application once before sending it.
5. Choosing Artwork Based Only on What You Love
Artists naturally lean toward the work they’re most attached to. But personal fondness doesn’t always guarantee relevance. Instead of simply picking what you love most, look at your portfolio objectively. Which piece actually makes sense in the context of this specific exhibition? Choose the work with the clearest concept and strongest visual impact—not simply the one that was the most enjoyable to make.
6. Waiting Until the Last Minute
Submitting close to the deadline can create unnecessary pressure. A technical problem, an oversized file, an incomplete field, or a last-minute change can become difficult to resolve when there is no time left.
Preparing your submission early gives you an opportunity to look at everything again with fresh eyes before you submit.
A Good Submission Begins Before You Click “Submit”
An exhibition submission is not only about having a strong artwork. It is also about making sure that the work is presented clearly, thoughtfully, and in accordance with the exhibition requirements.
Taking a little extra time to review your selection and application can make the submission process smoother—and allow your artwork to receive the attention it deserves.
Published by New Road 2 Art Editorial Team