Organizer Information
Format is recognized as a leading gallery dedicated exclusively to contemporary craft. The organization’s core mission is to promote, exhibit, and increase public knowledge and understanding of professional, material-based art. By featuring an annual program of up to eighteen distinct exhibitions across six periods, Format actively reflects the diverse and evolving tendencies within the field. The gallery strategically showcases the work of established artists alongside new talents, working to be a central and highly visible actor that champions the quality and breadth of contemporary craft in all its forms. Located in Oslo, Norway, the gallery maintains a commitment to rigorous curation and extensive outreach.
Title & Description
The FORMAT OPEN CALL 2027/2028 invites professional, material-based artists to submit compelling exhibition proposals for inclusion in the gallery's highly-regarded program over the 2027 and 2028 seasons. This is an exceptional, high-visibility opportunity to present a major new body of work or a significant existing project to a broad and knowledgeable European audience. The gallery is specifically seeking proposals that demonstrate high artistic quality, material mastery, and a critical engagement with the contemporary craft discourse. Submissions should successfully illustrate the diversity of materials, innovative techniques, and forms of expression possible within the discipline, aligning with Format's commitment to advancing the field and promoting its cultural significance. The selection process aims to curate a diverse and dynamic program for the gallery's upcoming seasons.
Categories
The call is focused on Contemporary Craft and Material-Based Art. This includes, but is not limited to, the core disciplines of Ceramics, Glass, Textile Art (Fibre Art), Jewelry, Metalwork, Wood, and other practices where material investigation is central to the artistic concept and execution.
Eligibility
The opportunity is primarily targeted at Professional, Material-Based Artists. There are no explicit age or demographic restrictions (e.g., LGBTQ+ Artists, Female Artists), but applicants must be professional practitioners whose work is grounded in material exploration and execution.
Program Benefits & Awards
Selected artists gain the significant benefit of a featured exhibition slot at a central and visible European gallery over the 2027/2028 season. This includes professional validation, increased visibility, and a substantial boost to the artist's profile on an international stage. Format is committed to supporting its artists through its dedicated outreach and promotion efforts, ensuring the work reaches a wide audience and is included in the gallery's educational initiatives. Benefits include Exhibition Opportunities, Curatorial and Logistical Support from the gallery team, Professional Installation, and high-quality Documentation of the exhibition. While specific cash prizes or grants are not detailed in the open call text, the value is derived from the high prestige and professional nature of the exhibition.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Concept: A detailed description of the proposed exhibition.
- Images: Visual documentation of the artwork or project.
- Bio: A current biography of the artist or artists.Crucially, the PDF filename must include the applicant’s name.
How to Apply?
Submissions must be made via email. Send the single PDF file to the gallery's designated email address: oslo@format.no
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 5 January 2026
- Notification Date (Results Communicated): During March 2026.
- Event/Residency Period (Exhibition Period): 2027/2028.
Location
Oslo, Norway
Additional Details
All applications will undergo a rigorous review process by a professional jury selected by the gallery. Applicants should note that the results will be communicated in March 2026, over a year before the exhibition period commences, allowing ample time for planning and production. The professional nature of this call demands that proposals are well-conceived and clearly articulated.