Applications open: Sept 2 – Oct 20th, 2025 (11 PM EST)
Exhibition: March 8 – April 11th, 2026 at Pen+Brush, NYC
THEME
SPECTALiA
One hundred years ago, Dada, Surrealism, Cabaret, and other art movements emerged in response to social and political unrest. A century later, we're in the same place. What is the artist’s response? What are we building? How do we stay part of the conversation in a world moving faster than we can grasp?
We respond with SPECTALiA. In an era where spectacle has become the norm, where the algorithms surreptitiously suggest and seduce, we believe joy is our most subversive act. This isn’t just a show. It’s a world-building spell.
We want your punk rock, your carnivalesque absurdity, your tech witch magic, your spectacle, your strange and delightful quiet resistance.
And, for the first time, the Biennial seeks the work of artists employing digital tools: from moving image to creative coding, XR, AI, and more!
GROUP PROJECT
Art-O-Mat reimagines the vintage coin-op cafeteria as a kinetic, interactive art machine, where visitors collect affordable “meta-mini” works that echo larger Biennial pieces—blending nostalgia, play, and micro-collecting.
- Every participating artist must contribute a small artwork for the Biennial’s Art-O-Mat.
- Each mini piece should reflect the spirit of your main work in the show.
- Artworks must be physical, self-contained objects (abstract or representational).
- Price range: $25–$30 (purchased directly by visitors).
- Contributions are considered both a donation to the Biennial and part of a collaborative group artwork.
WHO MAY APPLY
We're open to women and non-binary artists of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
VISUAL ARTS
- Accepted media: Painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, photography, textiles, mixed media.
- Collectives: Apply under the group’s name with one liaison; all members must sign the release/consignment.
- File Labeling: ARTIST NAME_TITLE_DIMENSIONS_MEDIUM_YEAR (in inches, HxW)
- Titles: Every work must have a unique title. If using “Untitled,” mark versions clearly (e.g., Untitled v1, Untitled v2).
- Format Rule: Applications that do not follow this format will be rejected.
- Tip: Save your application info in a separate document as backup
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Applying does not guarantee participation. Applications will be reviewed in November 2025, with notifications sent by December 15, 2025. If we have questions, we’ll contact you via the email provided.
❌ Shipped works not accepted
✅ Out-of-town artists must hand-deliver and pick up
✅ Works re-wrapped in original packaging for pickup
✅ All works must be framed gallery-style and ready to hang (no poster or oversized frames). Photographs must be framed or mounted.
Accepted artists agree to promotional use of their work regardless of whether or not they choose to participate. Only artworks listed in the consignment agreement will be permitted and must be for sale. Full details provided upon acceptance.