apexart 2026–27 International Open Call
apexart invites 500-word, idea-based group exhibition proposals for the 2026–27 International Open Call, open from 1 February to 1 March 2026. Five winning proposals will each receive a $10,000 exhibition budget to become apexart exhibitions in their respective locations around the world as part of the 2026–27 season. Curators, artists, writers, and creative individuals, regardless of experience level or location, are invited to submit a proposal online.
Eligibility criteria
This opportunity is open to curators, artists, writers, and creative individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of location or prior experience.
Proposals should describe a focused, idea-driven, original group exhibition featuring three or more artists. No biographical information, CVs, links, or images will be accepted. Submissions must be in English and cannot exceed 500 words.
Selection process
A diverse, rotating international jury of more than 600 people in 70 countries participates in a crowdsourced voting process. Each juror receives a dedicated login and casts votes online for at least 50 proposals. apexart’s voting system ensures jurors do not see submitters’ names and that each proposal receives an equal number of views. Several university classes also participate each year. Projects are judged on the strength of the exhibition idea and how clearly it is communicated, not on social connections, past accomplishments, or personality.
Results and funding
After the final vote is cast, the highest-ranked proposals are contacted and receive funding and production support to become apexart exhibitions in New York City and around the world. Winners are announced online shortly after the voting period.
Each winning proposal receives a $10,000 budget. Of this, $8,000 is allocated for exhibition expenses, including curator travel, artwork shipping, artist and public programme participant honorariums, equipment, and installation. The curator or organiser may receive up to a $2,000 honorarium for coordinating the project and writing the exhibition brochure essay.
For exhibitions outside New York City, apexart will match up to $1,000 for venue rental if needed. apexart also covers approved insurance, advertising, publicity, and the design, printing, and mailing of the exhibition brochure, as well as the local opening reception. The apexart team oversees and handles most exhibition logistics, including loan agreements and shipping, and works closely with guest curators and organisers to realise the exhibition.
Application deadline: 1 March 2026