How to Make Your Art Stand Out in a Crowded Field of Entries
If you’ve ever submitted your work to an art call for entry, you’re familiar with the time and effort required. The application process isn’t merely about submitting pictures of your work and hoping for the best (if only it were that simple!). For many art calls, the application process necessitates a significant amount of work and preparation, so it’s essential to select the right opportunity for you and excel in the application. Whether you’re submitting your work for an exhibition, applying for a grant, or entering an art competition, your objective is to capture the attention of the selection committee. This article provides tips for emerging artists and photographers on how to stand out in the art crowd.
1. Create a Strong Portfolio
One of the most important things you can do to make your art stand out is to create a strong portfolio. A well-curated portfolio showcases your best work and gives the selection committee a sense of your artistic style, vision, and unique voice. Ensure your portfolio is consistent in quality, style, and subject matter. Include various works to demonstrate your range and depth as an artist.
2. Follow the Guidelines
Following the guidelines provided by the competition, exhibition, or grant is essential. This may include size restrictions, submission formats, and specific themes or subject matter. Follow the guidelines to ensure your submission is not disqualified before the selection committee even has a chance to see your work.
3. Present Your Work Professionally
Presentation matters when it comes to making your art stand out. Make sure your work is framed correctly, mounted, or displayed. If you’re submitting digital images, ensure they’re high-quality. A professional presentation shows that you take your work seriously and can help your submission stand out from the competition.
4. Choose Your Best Work
When choosing which pieces to submit, be selective. Only select your best work. Only submit pieces that are representative of your artistic style or that you are delighted with. You want to make a strong impression on the selection committee, so make sure the work you submit is of the highest quality.
5. Tell Your Story
The story behind your art can be just as important as the artwork itself. Use your artist statement to explain your artistic vision and the inspiration behind your work. This can help the selection committee understand your art on a deeper level and may make your work stand out from others.
6. Make Waves
One way to make your art stand out is to shake things up. Show the selection committee something they haven’t seen before. Whether it’s a unique approach to a familiar subject matter or a new technique, being different can help your work stand out.
7. Research the Opportunity
Research the competition, exhibition, or grant you’re interested in. This can give you insight into the types of work that have been successful in the past and may help you tailor your submission to better fit the competition. For example, look at past winners or participants to get an idea of what the selection committee is looking for.
8. Get Feedback
Before submitting your work, get feedback from other artists or professionals in the industry. This can help you identify areas for improvement and make your submission stronger. It’s important to be open to constructive criticism and to use it to your advantage.
9. Be Patient
Finally, it’s important to practice patience. The selection process can take time, and it’s important not to get discouraged if you don’t hear back right away. Remember that even if you are not selected, the experience of submitting your work and putting yourself out there is invaluable!
Final Thoughts
Making your art stand out in a crowded field of entries takes time, effort, and a bit of strategy. By creating a strong portfolio, following the guidelines, presenting your work professionally, telling your story, being unique, researching the competition, getting feedback, and practicing patience, you can increase your chances of success. Remember that the selection process is subjective, and even if you are not selected, don’t give up. Keep creating and submitting your work, we believe in you!
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