apexart Open Call for Group Exhibition Proposals 2024 Offers $10,000 Budget

apexart, a prominent non-profit arts organization, is calling on curators, artists, writers, and creative thinkers to submit proposals for its NYC open call exhibition from October 1–31, 2024. This unique opportunity invites individuals from all over the world, regardless of experience level, to propose idea-based group exhibitions that could become part of apexart’s 2025–2026 exhibition season. Five winning proposals will receive an exhibition budget of up to $10,000 USD, full logistical support, and a global platform at apexart’s New York City space.

A Unique Opportunity to Realize Original Ideas

The open call encourages participants to develop focused, idea-driven group exhibitions. Unlike traditional art submission processes, apexart’s selection criteria are based purely on ideas and cultural relevance, rather than personal accolades or biographies. This approach fosters inclusivity, encouraging both seasoned curators and newcomers alike to compete on a level playing field.

Submissions should be kept within 500 words and should emphasize a coherent and original concept. All submissions must be written in English, and biographies, CVs, images, or links will not be accepted. This ensures that the proposals are judged solely on their merit and innovation.

Crowd-Sourced Jury Process

apexart employs a crowd-sourced voting system to ensure fairness and diversity in the selection process. Unlike the traditional model of a small, insular jury, apexart’s process involves 600 jurors from over 75 countries and a wide range of professional backgrounds. Additionally, students from 20 participating universities contribute to the review process. Each juror reviews the proposals anonymously, ensuring unbiased ratings based on personal interest and cultural relevance.

This large-scale evaluation process typically results in around 20,000 votes cast across approximately 500 proposals, giving each submission equal consideration and attention.

What Winning Proposals Receive

The five selected proposals will receive a $10,000 USD budget to fund their exhibitions, as well as full administrative and logistical support from apexart’s experienced team. This includes assistance with the exhibition brochure, which will be printed and mailed to over 6,000 recipients worldwide. apexart’s extensive network ensures that each curator’s vision is realized at the highest level.

Exhibition curators must work within the provided funding to bring their ideas to life, creating focused and engaging exhibitions that highlight innovative themes, creative storytelling, or cultural explorations.

A Chance to Leave a Mark on NYC’s Art Scene

Winning proposals will not only be exhibited in New York City, one of the world’s cultural capitals, but will also become part of apexart’s rich legacy of diverse and thought-provoking exhibitions. Past winners have explored a wide array of topics, often tackling important socio-political issues, environmental concerns, or explorations of identity and belonging.

The open call is a chance for curators and artists to challenge norms, explore new perspectives, and engage with a wide international audience. Submissions can focus on any theme, as long as they are group exhibitions—promoting collaboration and the exchange of ideas.

How to Apply

Interested individuals can submit their proposals through apexart’s website during the open submission window from October 1 to October 31, 2024. The application process is simple, focusing solely on the proposed exhibition’s concept without the need for additional documentation or personal history.