Submission Requirements & Guidelines
This document provides artists with essential information for entering Visual Arts Alliance (VAA) exhibitions. Requirements are mandatory and must be followed to participate. Guidelines are recommendations to help make your artwork more competitive.
All Entries
Submission Integrity
Submitted works may not be withdrawn or substituted for any reason. Artists who withdraw submissions will be prohibited from entering VAA exhibitions for one year. Descriptive information, including prices, cannot be changed after submission.
Exhibition Commitment
Accepted works must remain on view for the full duration of the exhibition, even if sold before or during the show. Early removal will result in a one-year exclusion from VAA exhibitions.
Image File Specifications
Images must be submitted electronically as JPEG files between 1 MB and 10 MB. Filenames must follow this exact format:
Lastname, Entry #, Title.jpg
Example:
Jones, Entry 1, Red Sunset.jpgJones, Entry 2, Yellow Sunrise.jpg
Do not use symbols, dashes, or extra spaces.
Artist and Artwork Information
Use standard capitalization (not all caps or all lowercase) except for state abbreviations. Double-check spelling and formatting—VAA does not edit submitted data.
Submitted pieces must not have been previously shown in a VAA exhibition. There is no restriction on the year the artwork was created.
Works featuring nudity, erotica, violence, profanity, offensive symbols, religious or political references will not be accepted in exhibitions held in general public venues (e.g., office building lobbies). Privately owned galleries may have different standards.
Artwork must not contain organic tissue or fluids. Video submissions are not permitted.
Shipped artwork must arrive by the stated deadline, in reusable packaging, and include a prepaid return shipping label.
VAA is not responsible for damage or loss during shipping, installation, or exhibition.
Artists are responsible for all sales transactions. VAA does not take commission or facilitate sales.
Wall-Mounted Entries
Works must be dry and either framed or edge-finished with no visible fasteners.
Use framer’s wire with D-ring hangers or equivalent. The wire must be taut and no more than 8 inches from the top of the artwork. Saw-tooth hangers and tape are not allowed.
Artwork dimensions must include the frame and must not exceed the maximum size stated in the exhibition prospectus.
Frames must be free of scratches, scuffs, or blemishes. Metal frames must have secure mechanical fasteners.
Framed works over 360 square inches must use Plexiglas instead of glass. Mats must be clean, smooth, and beveled.
Unframed paper, fabric, panel works, and wall sculptures must be ready to hang and weigh no more than 30 lbs. Installation must be approved and completed by the artist.
3D Entries
Suspended Works
Ceiling-suspended pieces are not allowed.
Image File Naming
Up to three images may be submitted per 3D work. Filenames must follow this format:
Lastname, Entry 1a, Title.jpg
Lastname, Entry 1b, Title.jpg
Lastname, Entry 1c, Title.jpg
Sculptures must be delivered with appropriate pedestals unless otherwise approved. Pedestals must be stable, clean, smooth, and white. Artwork must be securely stabilized. Vitrines may be required for small pieces.
IMPORTANT:
Before submitting, carefully review your entry to ensure full compliance with all VAA requirements. Non-compliant entries will not be accepted, and no refunds will be issued.
These recommendations are based on feedback from jurors across more than 90 exhibitions.
All Entries
Photography Tips
Professional photography is not required, but poor image quality can hurt your chances. Avoid blurry, poorly lit, discolored, awkwardly cropped, or obliquely photographed images. Ensure the background is neutral and not distracting.
Helpful video: How to Photograph Your Artwork
Wall-mounted Entries
D-rings are preferred. Avoid eye-hooks, which cause artwork to protrude from the wall and may lead to rejection.
All 2D works must be wired for hanging. Remove any extraneous wires not used for installation.
Simple frames are recommended. Ornate or heavy frames may distract from the artwork and be rejected.
Framing or float mounting is preferred for presentation.
Edges should be clean, with no paint spillovers, scuffs, stains, staples, or visible fasteners. Gallery-wrapped paintings may extend the image around the sides.
VAA exhibitions are juried blind. Avoid visible signatures or logos, which can distract or compromise the selection process. VAA may digitally remove signatures from submitted images.
Diptychs and triptychs may be submitted as a single entry, but combined dimensions must stay within the exhibition’s size limits.
3D Entries
Multiple Images
You may submit up to three images to showcase your 3D work. Short videos are also allowed, though not all jurors may be able to view them.
Pedestal Presentation
Pedestals should be clean, damage-free, and made of easily maintained materials. Artwork must be securely stabilized. Vitrines should be free of scratches and marks.
Installation Tips
Explore online resources for guidance on hanging and presenting your work professionally.