Call to Artists - Neighbourly
Closing Date of Opportunity: June 14th, 2025
Name or Organization: Neighbourly
Contact Email: nathan@colesart.ca
Post Content:
AN EXPLORATION OF CONNECTION AND COMMUNITY
What does it mean to be neighbourly? Is it a friendly wave across the street, a shared fence, or an unspoken understanding between strangers? This exhibition invites artists to explore the nuances of human connection— how we define, navigate, and shape our relationships with those around us.
From bustling cityscapes to quiet rural towns, from acts of kindness to moments of tension, Neighbourly examines the invisible threads that bind us together. Through diverse artistic expressions, we seek to uncover the ways in which community, proximity, and shared spaces influence our identities and experiences.
Whether through literal depictions of neighbourhood life or abstract interpretations of belonging, Neighbourly is a celebration of the connections—both big and small—that define our everyday lives.
WHO CAN SUBMIT
We welcome submissions from Canadian artists of all disciplines and skill levels, including but not limited to painting & drawing, sculpture, photography, mixed media, installation, and film. Whether you're an emerging artist or a seasoned professional, we want to see your unique interpretation of the theme!
HOW TO SUBMIT
Please send your submission to
nathan@colesart.ca
with the subject line
"Neighbourly Submission - [Your Name]."
SHOW DETAILS
Coles Art Market is a commercial art gallery, where artwork is presented with the intention of art sales. Our commission breakdown follows a standard gallery structure. Please reach out with any questions or concerns regarding our sales policies.
Selected works for the exhibition must be presentation-ready. If framing is required, we offer in-house framing services at a 30% discount for all exhibition participants. We recognize that "presentation ready" can vary depending on the artwork, so please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns regarding our presentation guidelines.
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
Submissions must be received by June 14th, 2025, no later than 5:30pm.
You may make as many submissions as you would like.
Submissions must include a quality image(s) of the artwork (under 2MB)
Submissions must include artwork specifications; title, dimensions, medium, price.
Please include a short artist statement explaining how your work connects to the theme.
Please include an artist biography.
Artists must be based in Canada.
EXHIBITION DATE
Neighbourly, will run from July 18th until August 16th 2025. An opening reception at Coles Art Market will take place July 18th at 6pm. More details TBA.
NATIONAL JURIED ART EXHIBITION
JURIED SHOW INFORMATION
We are ecstatic to announce that the opening reception of Neighbourly will also include the announcement of three juried awards!
JUROR’S CHOICE AWARD
The Juror’s Choice Award is selected by the exhibition jury, recognizing an outstanding work that exemplifies artistic excellence, strong conceptual execution, and a compelling interpretation of the Neighbourly theme. Unlike other awards based on specific criteria, this award celebrates a piece that, in the eyes of the jury, truly embodies the spirit of the exhibition while pushing artistic boundaries.
Award: $2000 and a solo exhibition at Coles Art Market with a date TBD
BRENDA WAINMAN GOULET AWARD OF DISTINCTION
Brenda Wainman Goulet—a visionary artist, devoted mother, cherished friend, and a passionate ambassador for the Muskoka arts community. Her sudden passing in 2018 left an undeniable void, but her spirit endures through her artwork and the countless lives she touched. This award recognizes an artist whose work exemplifies outstanding skill, creativity and impact—continuing the legacy of inspiration that Brenda so effortlessly embodied.
Award: $1000
ARTIST’S CHOICE AWARD
The Artist’s Choice Award is a unique honour, selected by the participating artists themselves. This award acknowledges a work of art that resonates most strongly with fellow artists in the exhibition. Each artist will have the opportunity to vote for the piece that they believe demonstrates exceptional creativity, technical skill, and thematic impact. The winner of this award is chosen by the peers who understand the effort, thought, and innovation that goes into creating meaningful art.
Award: $500
WHY SUBMIT TO NEIGHBOURLY?
Be part of a nationally juried art exhibition celebrating community, connection, and creativity.
Experience the power of artistic connection—this show is about bringing artists together in a meaningful way, fostering collaboration, inspiration, and shared creativity. Gain exposure to 100,000+ annual visitors who explore both Coles Art Market and the Algonquin Art Centre. Showcase your work in a professional, high-caliber exhibition that attracts collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts.
Expand your artistic network by connecting with fellow artists across Canada.
Push your creative boundaries by interpreting the theme Neighbourly in a unique and compelling way.
Be part of something big—this exhibition will be held during Nuit Blanche in Downtown Huntsville and will be our featured exhibition of 2025.
Your work will be on display for 1 month, providing ample opportunity for engagement and potential sales. Benefit from extensive promotion—this exhibition will be marketed through both galleries’ websites, social media, and newsletters.