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From Residencies to Art Fairs: Four Opportunities to Elevate Your Art Career

Building a sustainable art career often hinges on visibility and connections. For emerging and mid-career visual artists, the right opportunity can offer not just exposure, but also resources and validation. From a high-profile “anti-fair” in New York that puts independent artists face-to-face with collectors, to residencies and juried exhibitions, here are four upcoming opportunities that can elevate your practice:


1. Clio Art Fair – 20th Edition (Fall 2025)

Location: New York, NY

Application Deadline: June 27 2025

Blue hexagon reads "Clio Art Fair: The Anti-Fair for Independent Artists." Text below: "September 4-7, 2025, NYC. APPLY NOW!" Colorful background.

Clio Art Fair is a biannual contemporary art fair that showcases independent visual artists without exclusive gallery representation, earning it the nickname “the anti-fair.” This 20th edition takes place September 4–7, 2025 in the heart of Chelsea, offering each selected artist their own exhibition space and the chance to interact directly (and without filters) with collectors and art lovers. Clio’s mission is to shine a spotlight on talented creators forging their own paths and to create an approachable environment for artists and buyers alike. Exhibiting artists benefit from comprehensive support – 10 VIP passes for the VIP preview, an online profile on Clio’s website, social media promotion, professional lighting, on-site art handling and wall labels, plus free art storage during the fair. With art dealers present throughout the event, Clio Art Fair offers an unparalleled platform for unrepresented artists to gain visibility, network with art professionals, and sell work in a major market.



2. Monira Foundation – 12-Month Studio Residency

Location: Jersey City, New Jersey

Application Deadline: June 27, 2025


Open Call text on a vibrant gradient background reads "New Jersey 2025 Monira Residencies," highlighting an art opportunity.

Monira Foundation offers a 12-month, rent-free, non-residential studio residency at Mana Contemporary in Jersey City. Selected artists receive a private 500 sq. ft. studio, a $1,500 stipend, and curated studio visits from critics, curators, and artists throughout the year. The program is open to artists aged 21+ and supports production, experimentation, and the professional development of visual artists in a highly collaborative environment.




3. The Homiens Art Prize – International Open Call

Location: Online/Virtual (Worldwide)

Application Deadline: July 31, 2025

Gold abstract sculpture on white background. Text in blue: "$12,000 Annually Homiens Art Prize. Entries close July 31. Apply now."

The Homiens Art Prize awards artists over $12,000 USD annually, which means that it is one of the highest paying art prizes maintained by an independent art gallery that, to protect the artistic integrity of the prize, accepts no sponsorship. Our prize is open to all artists and art forms internationally. We celebrate our chosen artists across our media, exhibiting their art online where it is viewed by artists and collectors throughout the world. This round, three winning artists and twelve finalists will exhibit with Homiens as part of our seasonal exhibition program. In addition, each winning artist receives an unrestricted cash award of $1000 USD, may participate in an optional interview, and may request a letter of recommendation from our Jurors. Up to 200 artists per round are highly commended and celebrated across our media (including our website – 100,000+ annual visitors – and our extensive mailing list). Each entrant to The Homiens Art Prize receives a certificate of participation which may be used to contribute towards a demonstration of professional participation in the art industry. All entrants are considered for exhibition.



3. 75th A•ONE – International Exhibition at Silvermine Galleries

Location: New Canaan, Connecticut

Application Deadline: July 17, 2025

Abstract art with red, pink, green hues. Text: "Call for Entries, 75th A•ONE" for an exhibition. Deadline: July 17, 2025. Silvermine Galleries.

Hosted by Silvermine Galleries, A•ONE is a juried international exhibition that showcases a wide range of contemporary artworks from emerging and established artists. The Grand Prize winner receives a solo exhibition and a $1,000 stipend, with additional category-specific awards given. Juried by Eleanor de Ropp Flatow, Director of Sales at Hollis Taggart, the show is open to artists working in all fine art disciplines and offers an excellent opportunity to gain recognition in a well-regarded gallery setting.


Each of these opportunities offers a distinct springboard for artistic growth. Whether it’s connecting with collectors at Clio Art Fair’s independent artist-focused showcase, dedicating a year to your craft through Monira’s residency, achieving international recognition via the Homiens Art Prize, or vying for a solo show in Silvermine’s juried exhibition – now is the time to put yourself out there. As an artist, applying to open calls can be daunting, but remember that every submission is a chance to expand your network and gain exposure. Review the requirements, prepare your best work, and go for it. With perseverance and a bit of luck, one of these opportunities could be the one that propels your art career to the next level. Good luck!

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