CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS & OPPORTUNITIES
The WKP Kennedy Gallery invites innovative and dynamic submissions from artists across the region and beyond for our 2025–2026 exhibition season.
We are committed to fostering artistic excellence, curiosity, creativity, inclusivity, diversity, integrity, and collaboration. We work with established, mid-career, and emerging artists to present exhibitions that engage with contemporary art practices and explore critical issues such as environment, culture, identity, social justice, community, and accessibility.
Located in the heart of downtown North Bay, Ontario, the WKP Kennedy Gallery is a public art gallery and a department of the Capitol Centre. Our exhibitions rotate every 4–8 weeks and include self-directed proposals, thematic open calls, and community partnerships.
We accept exhibition applications on an ongoing basis. Submissions are reviewed and filed for consideration when opportunities align with our programming. Priority is given to artists who have not exhibited in our space within the past four years.
Please note: Each exhibition opportunity may have specific deadlines and application requirements.
2026 OPEN CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS:
1. ALL YOU CAN EAT: SQUARE FOOT SHOW (May 26 – July 4, 2026)
All You Can Eat is a playful, food-inspired square-foot exhibition celebrating creativity in bite-sized form. This community exhibition explores food as a universal connector — nourishing both body and spirit.
Artists are invited to interpret their chosen menu category in any medium or style — from literal culinary illustration to imaginative or abstract explorations of taste, memory, culture, and indulgence. From cherished family recipes to midnight snacks and comfort foods, each artwork becomes a portrait of personal tradition and identity.
The gallery will be divided into playful “courses,” creating the feeling of moving through a dining experience from start to finish — where each artwork becomes a dish and the exhibition transforms into a feast for the eyes.
Extending beyond the gallery walls, visitors will be encouraged to discover new favourites and exchange signature dishes through a shared Recipe Installation displayed in the gallery window — expanding the experience into storytelling and community connection.
Registration & Canvas Pick-Up
Artists may pick up their canvas and register for their selected menu category during:
Tuesday–Saturday
February 24–28 & March 3–7, 2026
12:00–4:00 PM
For additional details and deadlines, please refer to:
All You Can Eat Open Call for Submissions.pdf
2. DECK THE WALLS: HOLIDAY ART SALE (Nov 20 – Dec 19, 2026)
Deck the Walls is our annual festive exhibition and holiday art sale. Each year, the gallery transforms into a visual wonderland, displaying artwork salon-style from floor to ceiling. This seasonal showcase celebrates local artists and offers visitors the opportunity to purchase original artwork just in time for the holidays.
Registration + Artwork Drop-Off
Artists are invited to participate by submitting:
- 1–2 original artworks (painting, photography, or sculptural works)
- Up to 6 small items, such as handmade ornaments, greeting cards, small ceramics, carvings, or other handcrafted works
ARTWORK DROP-OFF DEADLINE:
November 10–14, 2026 (12:00–4:00 PM)
Maximum size for wall works: 30” × 30”
No application is required. All artwork that meets the size and display requirements will be included in the exhibition.
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GENERAL EXHIBITION PROPOSALS
While our current open call opportunities may not align with your proposed exhibition, we encourage artists and curators to submit proposals for consideration. We are always eager to discover new talent. Submissions will be kept on file for future programming opportunities.
Submission Guidelines
(Solo Exhibitions or Proposed Group Collaborations)
1. Proposal / Project Description (1 page max)
Provide a concise overview of your proposed exhibition or collaborative project, outlining the concept, theme, and relevant contextual information.
2. Technical Requirements
Detail any specific technical needs, including equipment, spatial considerations, installation requirements, and other logistical elements.
3. Artist or Curatorial Statement (250 words max)
Articulate the conceptual foundation of your artistic practice or curatorial approach.
4. Artist Bio(s) (250 words max each)
Include brief biographical information highlighting key achievements and contributions.
5. Current CV (3 pages max, including contact information)
Submit an up-to-date CV for each participating artist or curator.
6. Support Material
Include visual documentation (JPG format) or links to online platforms showcasing your work.
7. Support Material List
Provide a detailed list of submitted works including title, date, medium, and dimensions. For video/audio files, indicate the preferred viewing/listening segment.
SELECTION PROCESS
All proposals undergo review by the Gallery Director and Gallery Advisory Committee. Submissions are evaluated based on artistic merit, project viability, and alignment with the WKP Kennedy Gallery’s mandate and programming priorities, with particular attention to community relevance.
Following Programming Committee deliberations and consideration of budgetary and scheduling factors, final exhibition selections are approved by the Executive Director.
EXHIBITION FEES
The WKP Kennedy Gallery is designated as a Category 1 gallery and classified as a small space by Copyright Visual Arts – Droits d’auteur Arts Visuals. We adhere to their fee schedule and pay full artist fees accordingly.
For current fee information, please consult the Copyright Visual Arts Fee Schedule.
For further inquiries regarding submissions or exhibition fees, please contact:
info@kennedygallery.org