Discover the Best Open-Call Websites for Your Discipline

Whether you’re a muralist dreaming of a large-scale public wall, a painter looking for your next exhibition, or a sculptor seeking a fresh commission, open calls are a vital way to build your résumé, expand your network, and earn paid project work. Below are seven of the most trusted platforms—each calling out painting alongside other disciplines.

1. CODAworx

Best for: Public art projects, murals, large-format painting, sculptures, site-specific installations
CODAworx specializes in connecting artists—painters included—with public and corporate art opportunities. From bold wall murals and large-scale canvases to three-dimensional installations, CODAworx’s curated calls often include budgets for engineering, fabrication, and installation support.

2. PublicArtist.org

Best for: Murals, outdoor painting projects, public sculptures, installations
This nonprofit platform focuses on public-sector art commissions. Listings frequently cover travel stipends, lodging, or equipment rentals (e.g., lifts), making it a go-to for painters who need logistical support on large surfaces.

3. ArtDeadline.com

Best for: Painting exhibitions, grants, competitions, residencies (all disciplines)
Dubbed “The Art World’s Source for Income & Exhibition Opportunities,” ArtDeadline aggregates calls across painting, mixed media, photography, sculpture, and more. Its breadth makes it perfect for painters hunting juried shows alongside multidisciplinary artists.

4. CallForEntry.org (CaFÉ)

Best for: Fine art painting shows, public art, juried competitions
CaFÉ is the application hub for museums, arts councils, and public-art programs. Painters will find detailed listings that spell out canvas dimensions, installation needs, insurance, and honoraria.

5. Artwork Archive

Best for: Painter residencies, small grants, curated exhibitions
Beyond portfolio management, Artwork Archive’s resources section highlights residencies and exhibitions worldwide. It’s an excellent launchpad for painters building their first résumé of shows and studio-away-from-home experiences.

6. NYFA (New York Foundation for the Arts)

Best for: U.S. painter fellowships, grants, arts residencies
NYFA’s classified listings are a staple for American painters seeking funding and residency support. Many programs include travel grants or stipends to offset living costs.

7. CuratorSpace

Best for: Gallery painting exhibitions, artist-curator collaborations, mixed-media shows
With a strong community focus, CuratorSpace lets painters connect directly with curators. It’s ideal for artists aiming for gallery-driven opportunities in painting, photography, and beyond.

Discipline-Focused Recommendations

How to Prepare—and Negotiate—Your Submission

Before you hit “Submit,” take time to:

1. Research the Organizer
   • Visit past project pages and social-media feeds
   • Read artist testimonials or press coverage
   
   

2. Align with Your Brand
   • Choose calls that reflect your signature style and values
    • Tailor your proposal narrative to emphasize your unique voice
   

3. Clarify Budget vs. Benefits
   • A smaller honorarium may include travel, lodging, or equipment (e.g., scissor-lift rentals)
    • If the fee seems low, confirm what costs are covered (materials, fabrication, insurance)
   

4. Review Technical Requirements
   • Wall dimensions, weight limits, power access, or site restrictions
    • Insurance, permits, and health-and-safety obligations
   

5. Negotiate Fair Terms
   • Ask whether the organizer covers installation labor or site prep
    • Discuss deadlines and payment schedules—never assume “net-30” by default
   

6. Proofread and Gather Attachments
   • High-resolution images, an up-to-date résumé, and an artist statement
   • References or letters of support, if requested
   
   

Take Your Next Step

Open calls can be competitive—but with a targeted strategy, you’ll maximize your chances of landing projects that pay, amplify your practice, and expand your visibility. Bookmark these platforms in your creative toolkit, keep your portfolio current, and dive in with confidence.