Organizer Information

UPWARD Gallery is an international online art platform that curates juried exhibitions to showcase contemporary visual art from artists worldwide. The gallery supports emerging and professional artists by offering opportunities for exhibition, recognition, and online promotion, while providing both digital and print visibility through its quarterly publication, UPWARD’s Quarterly.

Title & Description

Shadow Play – Juried Art Exhibition
UPWARD Gallery invites artists globally to participate in the Shadow Play Juried Art Exhibition, focusing on contemporary works that explore the theme of shadows in visual expression. The exhibition accepts original works in all traditional and digital media, including painting, drawing, mixed media, digital painting, crafts, and fabric arts. Entries will be evaluated on artistic technique, handling of medium, design, creative elements, and overall impact. Selected works will gain recognition through digital and print platforms, including social media promotion, editorial interviews, and curated online galleries.

Categories

  • Visual Art
  • Painting
  • Drawing
  • Mixed Media
  • Digital Painting
  • Crafts / Fabric Art

Eligibility

  • Artists 18 years or older
  • Open to artists worldwide
  • Works must be original and adhere to the submission criteria
  • No profanity or political artwork

Program Benefits & Awards

  • 1st, 2nd, 3rd place in each media and age category
  • Merit Awards, Honorable Mentions, Finalist Certificates
  • All entrants receive electronic certificates
  • Selected works featured in UPWARD’s Quarterly print edition and curated online galleries
  • Social media promotion on UPWARD Gallery Instagram
  • 1st place winners interviewed for publication on UPWARD Gallery platforms
  • 1st place winners can submit two artworks for free in future exhibitions

Application Fee

  • $15 for one artwork
  • $12 per artwork for 2–4 works
  • $10 per artwork for 5+ works
  • Alternate pricing for non-registered users: $36 for 1–2 artworks; $64 for 3–4; $84 for 5–6
  • Non-refundable

Application Requirements

  • Digital files in JPG or PNG, <10 MB, 800×800–2000×2000 px
  • Original artworks only (reference photos require permission)
  • Multiple entries allowed
  • Follow copyright and submission guidelines

How to Apply

Online Application

Key Dates

  • Application Deadline: 5 December 2025
  • Winners Announcement: December 12, 2025

Location

Online (virtual exhibition)

Additional Details

  • UPWARD Gallery retains rights to display entries for promotion and archival purposes
  • Artists retain all copyright; images will not be resold
  • Disqualified if submission violates guidelines or tampers with the exhibition process
  • Submission implies agreement to all official rules and terms

Website Link: https://upwardgallery.com/