Beginning January 5, 2026, our team will be available during regular operating hours, Monday through Friday, 9am–5pm, via phone or email. If you’d like to meet with a staff member in person or via video conferencing, reach out via email to schedule an appointment. You can also subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or BlueSky to stay up to date on upcoming open office hours at our new space and community locations.

Artist Opportunities

Current & Upcoming OVAC Opportunities

Current & Upcoming Community Opportunities


Rolling Artist Opportunities

Community Mural Program

NOW Art
National

Community Engaged Practice Programs

VAACA-Arquetopia
National


ExhibITion Art Show

amshot
Oklahoma - Statewide



Farm Studio International Artist Residency

Farm Studio India
National


Quarterly Exhibitions

River & Word Arts Collective
Statewide


Artist Opportunity Calendar

Each entry in the calendar is listed in order by the date the opportunity opens.


    • 15 Feb 2025
    • 15 Mar 2026
    • Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC)


    Our Grants for Artists Education Assistance Grant application opens on February 15th with an application deadline of March 15th! Whether it's painting, sculpting, curating, or art writing, we invite you to dive into our current grant opportunities!

    Apply today


    Open to all visual mediums, curation, and art writing.

    Learn more and apply today at ovac-ok.org/grantsforartists

    Questions? Reach out to Administrative and Artist Relations Manager, Ariana Weir-Temoshok, at ariana@ovac-ok.org

    • 15 Feb 2025
    • 15 Mar 2026
    • Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC)


    Our Grants for Artists Professional Basics Grant application opens on February 15th with an application deadline of March 15th! Whether it's painting, sculpting, curating, or art writing, we invite you to dive into our current grant opportunities!

    Apply today


    Open to all visual mediums, curation, and art writing.

    Learn more and apply today at ovac-ok.org/grantsforartists

    Questions? Reach out to Administrative and Artist Relations Manager, Ariana Weir-Temoshok, at ariana@ovac-ok.org

    --

    Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition

    • 23 Apr 2025
    • 23 Apr 2026
    • Elara Caring

    Elara Caring are in search of artists that can paint and/or draw portraits. To give families a forever lasting hand-crafted picture of their loved ones. This can all be done in the comfort of your home or studio and can be done according to your schedule. Any medium, any size, at your own pace. Photo of the patient is provided to you for the portrait.

    Make a real difference in someone’s life! 
    Elara Caring, one of the nation’s largest providers of home-based care, is looking for compassionate volunteers willing to donate their time to provide exceptional end-of-life care to local hospice patients and their families.

     For more information contact: (210) 325-1451

    Learn More

    --

    Elara Caring

    • 5 Dec 2025
    • 25 Jan 2026
    • Oklahoma Contemporary


    Applications are open for visual artists and artist collectives residing or working in central Oklahoma or rural communities whose works are culturally or historically relevant to Oklahoma and appeal to a broad audience to submit proposals for consideration for the 2027 Step-Up Art Program.
    Application Deadline: Jan 25, 2026 at 11:59PM CT

    This application is free and open to all Oklahoma residents located in OKC & Rural Areas
    Apply Now

    The Timeline:

    • December 5 - Call for Artists Opens
    • December 17 @ 11:30am CT - Virtual Info Webinar
    • January 25, 2026 - Call for Artists Closes
    • February/March 2026 - Artist(s) Selection Phase
    • March/April 2026 - Artist(s) Contracting Phase
    • June 2026 - Step-Up Artist(s) announced at the 2026 Allied Arts Campaign Celebration
    • November 2026 - Step-Up Artist(s) presentation at Allied Arts Workplace Giving Coordinators Event & Artwork Delivery/Distribution Begins
    • January 2027 - Campaign Kick-Off Event


    About Step-Up Art Program:

    Since 2016, Allied Arts has commissioned local artists to create original works, which are gifted to donors who contribute $200 or more to Workplace Giving drives that support its annual fundraising campaigns. The program not only recognizes donor generosity but also provides meaningful promotional and income opportunities for local artists, connecting philanthropy with creativity in inspiring ways.This program is facilitated by the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).

    Questions? Reach out to OVAC Administrative and Artist Relations Manager, Ariana Weir-Temoshok at Ariana@Ovac-Ok.Org or call (405) 879-2400 Ex. 5

    • 5 Dec 2025
    • 5 Mar 2026
    • The Artist Closet


    The Artist Closet is a community operated initiative dedicated to collecting art supply donations and redistributing them to our local creatives at no cost. 
    We're in need of volunteers to regularly help us organize our art supply donations! The Artist Closet is located inside of Mycelium Gallery in OKC. Volunteers are encouraged to come in during the gallery's open hours however it best fits their own schedules. Volunteers can help us organize however they are able, whether you can help us lift heavy boxes, color coordinate items, alphabetize items, or quality test items- we appreciate your help!

    Reach out about volunteering

    Follow us on Instagram for updates!
    @theartistcloset_ok

    --
    This Opportunity is provided by The Artist Closet and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).

    Submit your art events & opportunities to our Oklahoma Arts Resource Calendar!
    • 1 Jan 2026
    • 15 Feb 2026
    • Chautauqua Institution School of Art

    A graphic image of the Chautauqua Institution's School of Art logo and a photograph of a residency alumni in their studio at Chautauqua
    Residency Dates: June 26–August 8, 2026
    Deadline to Apply: February 15, 2026
    Apply Here

    The Faculty-Led Six Week Residency is an esteemed program for emerging artists who are committed to elevating their studio practice and want to work with our invited faculty artists. Over the course of six weeks, this residency offers an immersive environment that prioritizes artistic exploration and making. Participants benefit from a studio-driven framework, enriched by classes, personalized studio visits, and insightful lectures from accomplished professionals in the field.

    Key Components of the Program:

    Studio Space: Each resident is assigned a studio, providing an opportunity to focus on developing their work.

    Access to Facilities: Residents have access to a variety of art facilities, including:

    • Ceramics Center
    • Printmaking Studio
    • Silkscreen Shop
    • Drawing Studio
    • Fiber Studio
    • Woodshop
    • Outdoor Sculpture Pad

    Faculty Support: The program features dedicated faculty who engage with residents through classes and offer personalized studio visits for one-on-one feedback. Faculty members bring their own artistic practices into the teaching process, contributing to the learning environment.

    Intellectual and Artistic Resources: Residents are encouraged to explore the broader resources available at the Chautauqua Institution, which include lectures by accomplished writers, historians, and thought leaders, along with performances in theater, music, and dance.

    Community Engagement: Participation in group discussions, lectures, and pop-up talks is encouraged, fostering a collaborative atmosphere among residents and faculty.

    Requirements
    - Available for the entire duration of the residency program
    - Comfortable working in a rural environment
    - Is at least 21 years of age at the start of the residency program
    - Daily cleaning and organizational skills
    - Work well on a team and independently
    - Self-motivated

    Application Instructions
    Complete all application questions and supply:
    - A PDF of your CV

    - 1 Reference (References must submit their letter within 7 days of application deadline)

    - Portfolio: 10 Images representative of your work.


    --
    This Opportunity is provided by Chautauqua Institution School of Art and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).

    Submit your art events & opportunities to our Oklahoma Arts Resource Calendar!
    • 3 Jan 2026
    • 7 Mar 2026
    • Terra Rosa Art Gallery and Creative Space


    Call for Artists: "Wait 5 Minutes" – A Statewide Juried Exhibition

    Theme: Oklahoma Weather Host: Terra Rosa Art Gallery, Guthrie, OK Exhibition Year: 2026

    Overview: They say if you don't like the weather in Oklahoma, wait five minutes. Terra Rosa Art Gallery invites artists to capture the volatile, beautiful, and dramatic spirit of Oklahoma’s skies. From supercells and tornadic fury to golden sunsets and the quiet after the storm, we are looking for works that interpret the famous "Wait 5 Minutes" phenomenon. This juried exhibition showcases the diversity of the Oklahoma landscape through the eyes of its artists. We are honored to have Greg Stone (Signature Member, Pastel Society of America) serving as this year's juror.

    Key Dates:

    • Submission Deadline: March 7, 2026
    • Notification of Acceptance: March 14-20, 2026
    • Exhibition Dates: April 11 – May 30, 2026
    • Opening Reception: April 11, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

    Eligibility:

    • Open to all artists 18+ residing in Oklahoma (Statewide).
    • Work must be original and completed in the last 2-3 years.

    Entry Fee:

    • $25 for the first entry; $10 for each additional entry (up to 4 total).

    Awards:

    • Best of Show: $1,000
    • 2nd Place: $500
    • 3rd Place: $250
    • Honorable Mentions: (3) $50 Gift Certificates to Jerry's Artarama
    • People's Choice Award: Cash prize (funded by voting proceeds)

    How to Apply:

    For questions, please contact Terra Rosa Art Gallery at TerraRosaGallery@gmail.com or (405) 474-1973.

    --
    This Opportunity is provided by Terra Rosa Art Gallery and Creative Space and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).

    Submit your art events & opportunities to our Oklahoma Arts Resource Calendar!

    • 7 Jan 2026
    • 2 Mar 2026
    • McKeon Center for Creativity

    The Center for Creativity in downtown Tulsa is conducting an open call for artists and writers for the exhibition “DIALOGUE.” The exhibition will showcase creative expressions that illuminate how dialogue shapes understanding, challenges assumptions, and fosters connection. Artworks in all media, including visual art, poetry, prose, sound, and film/video will be considered. Selected artists will receive a $100 honorarium and the opportunity to offer work for sale with no commission assessed.

    The deadline to submit is Monday, March 2.
    Submission form can be found here

    --
    This Opportunity is provided by McKeon Center for Creativity and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).

    Submit your art events & opportunities to our Oklahoma Arts Resource Calendar!
    • 8 Jan 2026
    • 16 Feb 2026
    • Mycelium Gallery

    Poster Art made by Silver Sky Studios
    Foodies! 
    Get creative with making art of your favorite food, or imagine a wild combination of food and character mash up, or a cartoon version of food, or some fantastical food creation!

    Foodies will feature a food drive and donation to a local food bank, TBD.

    Details and Applications can be found on our website: www.myceliumgallery.com/applications

    --
    This Opportunity is provided by Mycelium Gallery and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).
    The address for this event is: 2816 N. Pennsylvania Ave.Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73107

    Submit your art events & opportunities to our Oklahoma Arts Resource Calendar!

    • 16 Jan 2026
    • 20 Feb 2026
    • Chautauqua Institution School of Art

    A graphic image containing Chautauqua Institution's School of Art Logo and a photograph of an artist in the ceramic studio
    The Two-Week Residency is a self-directed program designed to give artists uninterrupted time and space to focus deeply on their practice.

    Apply Here

    During the first week, artists work independently in their studios, free from scheduled commitments. In the second week, participants engage in a series of studio visits with leading arts professionals, including our visiting gallerist; Judy Barie, the Susan and John Turben Director of Chautauqua Visual Arts (CVA) Galleries; Erika Diamond, Associate Director of Galleries at Chautauqua Institution; and Erika b Hess, Artistic Director of Chautauqua Visual Arts.

    This residency coincides with Chautauqua Institution’s world-renowned summer programming, where artists, musicians, and thought leaders gather to celebrate creative exchange. Residents receive a gate pass granting access to concerts, lectures, and performances, offering further opportunities to connect and engage across disciplines.

    Set within the inspiring grounds of Chautauqua Institution, the Two-Week Residency provides dedicated studio space, meaningful dialogue through studio visits and feedback sessions, and a chance to build connections with curators, gallerists, and fellow artists all while maintaining the independence of a self-directed practice.

    Requirements
    - Available for the entire duration of the residency program
    - Comfortable working in a rural environment
    - Is at least 21 years of age at the start of the residency program
    - Daily cleaning and organizational skills
    - Work well on a team and independently
    - Self-motivated
    - Cost of Attendance (Includes housing, meals, tuition, and fees)

    Application Instructions

    Requirements for application include:
    • Ten images of your work. All media accepted, including video. Video submissions must be less than five minutes each.
    • Descriptions of your work for each image including title, media, dimensions, and year created.
    • Statement about why you are interested in the residency and what you hope to accomplish during your stay
     Artist Statement
    • PDF of your current CV.
    • One reference
    • $35 non-refundable application fee.

    Chautauqua Institution has a deep commitment to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility and encourages applications from all backgrounds and lived experiences.

    Application Fee: $35

    --
    This Opportunity is provided by Chautauqua Institution School of Art and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).

    Submit your art events & opportunities to our Oklahoma Arts Resource Calendar!

    • 25 Jan 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Uncanny Art House

    Uncanny Art Hang is a relaxed monthly gathering designed to give artists and creatives a consistent place to land. Rooted in the collaborative energy that emerged from Art Soup, this evening emphasizes connection over programming and process over presentation.

    Artists, makers, and creative thinkers are invited to bring a project, a sketchbook, or simply themselves. Whether you are actively working, exchanging ideas, or meeting new collaborators, the space is open for shared momentum and casual conversation.


    Evening Flow

    6:00 PM – Doors Open

    Arrive, settle in, grab a drink, and reconnect with the community.

    6:30 PM – Open Coworking

    Work independently or collaboratively, talk through ideas, and enjoy the creative hum of the gallery.

    9:00 PM – Wrap-Up

    Close out the evening with informal reflections and new connections.


    ABOUT UNCANNY ART HOUSE

    Uncanny Art House is an independent, artist-run gallery and creative space dedicated to fostering collaboration, supporting local artists, and promoting the visual arts. Located in the heart of Norman, Oklahoma, Uncanny Art House is a hub for creativity, community, and innovation.

    For more information, follow us on Facebook or Instagram and stay updated on all our events and exhibitions.


    Learn More

    --
    This Event is provided by Uncanny Art House and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).
    The address for this event is: 106 E. Main St. Norman, OK 73069

    Submit your art events & opportunities to our Oklahoma Arts Resource Calendar!

    • 1 Feb 2026
    • 15 Mar 2026
    • Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC)


    Our Grants for Artists Creative Projects Grant application opens on February 1st with an application deadline of March 15th! Whether it's painting, sculpting, curating, or art writing, we invite you to dive into our current grant opportunities!

    Apply today


    Open to all visual mediums, curation, and art writing.

    Learn more and apply today at ovac-ok.org/grantsforartists

    Questions? Reach out to Administrative and Artist Relations Manager, Ariana Weir-Temoshok, at ariana@ovac-ok.org


    --

    Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition

    • 1 Feb 2026
    • 15 Mar 2026
    • Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition


    Our Grants for Artists Community/Artist Partnerships Grant application opens on February 1st with an application deadline of March 15th! Whether it's painting, sculpting, curating, or art writing, we invite you to dive into our current grant opportunities!

    Apply Today


    Open to all visual mediums, curation, and art writing.

    Learn more and apply today at ovac-ok.org/grantsforartists

    For questions or assistance with your application. Reach out to Administrative and Artist Relations Manager, Ariana Weir-Temoshok, at ariana@ovac-ok.org or call (405) 879-2400 Ex. 5.

    --


    Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition

    • 8 Feb 2026
    • 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Mycelium Gallery


    Needle Felted Snails with Treka from Fibers Of My Soul Slow down and get creative! In this beginner-friendly needle felting class, you’ll learn the basics of sculpting wool as we create an adorable needle felted snail from soft, colorful fibers. Students will be guided step-by-step through shaping the body, building the shell, and adding charming details that bring your snail to life. No experience necessary—just bring your curiosity and enjoy the process. All materials and tools are provided, and you’ll leave with a finished snail and the skills to continue felting at home. This relaxed, hands-on class is perfect for anyone looking to try something new, unwind, and make a little woolly magic. Sunday, Feb 8 | 2–5 PM | $50

    Get Tickets

    --
    This Opportunity is provided by Mycelium Gallery and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).
    The address for this event is: 2816 N. Pennsylvania Ave.Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73107

    Submit your art events & opportunities to our Oklahoma Arts Resource Calendar!

    • 8 Feb 2026
    • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Uncanny Art House


    Discover how play shapes the way we learn, create, and engage with the world in this interactive workshop led by Dr. Emily Spivey, PhD, early childhood educator and co-author of Oklahoma’s Play to Learn Act.

    This session explores play as a lifelong creative practice, highlighting its role in learning, curiosity, and the artistic process across all ages. Participants will engage in hands-on activities and discussion focused on how playful approaches can deepen creative thinking and support both personal and artistic growth.

    This class is geared towards adults. Registration is $10 and is limited to 20 participants. Advance registration is required.

    Register Here

    ABOUT UNCANNY ART HOUSE
    Uncanny Art House is an independent, artist-run gallery and creative space dedicated to fostering collaboration, supporting local artists, and promoting the visual arts. Located in the heart of Norman, Oklahoma, Uncanny Art House is a hub for creativity, community, and innovation.

    For more information, follow us on Facebook or Instagram and stay updated on all our events and exhibitions.

    --
    This Event is provided by Uncanny Art House and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).
    The address for this event is: 106 E. Main St. Norman, OK 73069

    Submit your art events & opportunities to our Oklahoma Arts Resource Calendar!

    • 22 Feb 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Uncanny Art House


    Uncanny Art Hang is an open studio–style social centered on creative presence and peer support. This gathering offers an unstructured environment where artists can spend time making, thinking, or simply being in a room full of other creative people.

    There is no agenda and no expectation to produce finished work. The focus is on showing up, sharing space, and allowing ideas to unfold naturally through conversation and observation.

    Itinerary

    6:00 PM – Doors Open

    Ease into the evening, explore the gallery, and catch up with familiar faces.

    6:30 PM – Open Creative Time

    Work on personal projects, ask for feedback, collaborate, or observe how others create.

    9:00 PM – Closing

    Wind down the night and carry new ideas into the weeks ahead.

    Learn More


    ABOUT UNCANNY ART HOUSE

    Uncanny Art House is an independent, artist-run gallery and creative space dedicated to fostering collaboration, supporting local artists, and promoting the visual arts. Located in the heart of Norman, Oklahoma, Uncanny Art House is a hub for creativity, community, and innovation.

    For more information, follow us on Facebook or Instagram and stay updated on all our events and exhibitions.

    --
    This Event is provided by Uncanny Art House and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).
    The address for this event is: 106 E. Main St. Norman, OK 73069

    Submit your art events & opportunities to our Oklahoma Arts Resource Calendar!

    • 1 Apr 2026
    • 1 Jun 2026
    • Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition

    THRIVE Grants aim to further support artists’ innovation throughout Oklahoma with project grants of up to $10,000 for artist-led initiatives. These grants provide support for ambitious, impactful, and innovative visual arts projects that are collaborative and engage the community.

    Apply Now

    THRIVE Grants is a partnership with the Andy Warhol Foundation supporting our mission to grow and develop Oklahoma's visual arts community through education, promotion, connection, and funding.


    Questions? Reach out to Administrative and Artist Relations Manager, Ariana Weir-Temoshok, at Ariana@Ovac-Ok.Org or (405) 879-2400 Ex. 5

    • 30 Apr 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Oklahoma State Capitol


    Every year, Oklahomans for the Arts hosts Arts & Culture Day, the state’s only arts advocacy event. This unique day brings together artists, educators, organizations, and advocates to champion the value of the arts in Oklahoma. Attendees will receive advocacy training, learn about key legislative issues impacting the arts, connect directly with state legislators, and celebrate the transformative role of the arts in our communities. Don’t miss this opportunity to make your voice heard and support the future of creativity in Oklahoma!

    Register Today!

    --
    This Event is provided by Oklahomans for the Arts and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).
    The address for this event is: 2300 N Lincoln Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73105
    Submit your art events & opportunities to our Oklahoma Arts Resource Calendar!


CONTACT US

Phone: (405)879-2400

Operating Hours: Monday–Friday, 9AM–5PM
Click to schedule Office Hours

ADDRESS

Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition
609 W. Sheridan Ave.
Oklahoma City, OK 73102

© 2025 Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition. All rights reserved. Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. EIN: 73-1328072.

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