Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition upcoming events

$4,500 & $1,000 Artist Grants | The Hopper Prize Spring 2026 (17 Feb 2026)

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

The Hopper Prize is accepting submissions for $4,500 and $1,000 artist grants. For this open call, they have increased awards to $4,500. They will be providing 6 grants totaling $13,000 USD. 2 artists will each receive $4,500 and 4 artists will each receive $1,000. This is an international open call. All media is eligible. This open call provides you with a direct path to get your work in front of an international community of curators, artists, gallerists, and arts administrators. Additional exposure is available via a 30 artist shortlist, online journal, & Instagram currently reaching over 160k.

Apply

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

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

Apps Open: We The People (23 Feb 2026)

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

We live in a moment of deep contrasts. Across the country, emotions run high, perspectives collide, and many feel their voices are overlooked or unheard. This show seeks to open a space where artists can respond freely to this moment, without fear of backlash, censorship, or judgment. This exhibition invites work that speaks authentically to your experience of America today. We welcome all viewpoints, from hope to critique, unity to division, celebration to challenge.

Eligibility & Mediums

• Open to artists over 18 of all backgrounds, regardless of experience level.

• All mediums and disciplines are eligible.

• Works must be original and ready for display or presentation.

• All works must be for sale if visual art.

Exhibition Format

• To foster honesty and safety of expression, works will be exhibited without individual artist names attached unless requested.

• A complete list of participating artists will be displayed as a group.

• Artists may choose to “opt in” for name disclosure upon request of the viewer.

• If a piece is purchased, the artist’s name will be shared with the buyer.

Apply now

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This Opportunity is provided by Liggett Studio and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).

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

Registration Open: Summer Music Video Production Boot Camp (Ages 10–13) (19 Mar 2026)

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Camp Dates: June 1 – June 5, 2026

Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Cost: $200 per student

Capacity: 10 students

Pre-registration is required

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This week-long summer boot camp gives students ages 10–13 the opportunity to create a complete music video from start to finish using music from a real local artist. Working collaboratively, students will move through the full production process, from developing an idea to filming and editing a finished video.

Throughout the week, students will learn the fundamentals of music video production, including brainstorming concepts, storyboarding, planning shots, operating cameras, and taking on different on-set roles. The camp emphasizes creative thinking, teamwork, and hands-on learning in a small-group environment. No prior experience is required, and all equipment is provided.

Family Premiere

On the final Friday of camp at 4:00 PM, families are invited to attend a screening premiere of the completed music video. Students will introduce their project and present their finished work to family and friends.

Music for the project is provided by a local artist. The artist will not be present.

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INSTRUCTORS

Chase Spivey and Julius of Uncanny Media are professional filmmakers and artists who have produced music videos for dozens of artists, including Jabee and Chat Pile, with nearly one million combined views on YouTube.

Chase Spivey has been making music videos since 2001 and holds a BFA in Film and Video Studies from the University of Oklahoma. He is a programming team member for deadCenter Film Festival and has operated his own video production studio since 2018.

Julius holds a BFA in Painting from Cameron University and has worked for over a decade as a videographer, graphic designer, and professional artist.

ABOUT UNCANNY ART HOUSE

Located in the heart of Norman, Oklahoma, Uncanny Art House is a multidisciplinary art space focused on creating accessible, immersive experiences for artists and audiences alike. Through exhibitions, workshops, and public programs, the gallery fosters connection, curiosity, and creative exploration.

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This Opportunity 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!

Registration Open: Summer Music Video Production Boot Camp (Ages 14–17) (20 Mar 2026)

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Camp Dates: June 15 – June 19, 2026

Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Cost: $200 per student

Capacity: 10 students

Pre-registration is required

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This immersive summer boot camp is designed for students ages 14–17 who want hands-on experience creating a music video from concept to final premiere. Using music provided by a local artist, students will collaborate to develop a creative vision and bring it to life through filming and editing.

Participants will learn how to interpret music visually, develop storyboards, plan shots, operate cameras, and work within a production team. The camp focuses on real-world production skills, creative problem-solving, and collaboration, offering a professional-style experience in a supportive learning environment. No prior experience is required, and all equipment is provided.

Family Premiere

On the final Friday of camp at 4:00 PM, families are invited to attend a screening of the completed music video. Students will introduce their project and share their finished work with family and friends.

Music is provided by a local artist. The artist will not be present.

Register

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INSTRUCTORS

Chase Spivey and Julius of Uncanny Media are professional filmmakers and artists with extensive experience producing music videos for regional and national artists, including Jabee and Chat Pile.

Chase Spivey holds a BFA in Film and Video Studies from the University of Oklahoma and has been producing music videos since 2001. He is also a programming team member for deadCenter Film Festival and the owner of a video production studio.

Julius holds a BFA in Painting from Cameron University and has over a decade of experience working as a videographer, graphic designer, and professional artist.

ABOUT UNCANNY ART HOUSE

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This Opportunity 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!

Call for Artists: Art For All! (7 Apr 2026)

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Art For All is a community driven event dedicated to uplifting Oklahoma's creative community. Through this group exhibition, we celebrate The Artist Closet’s achievements while continuing to invest in our local artists.

Apply Now!

This event brings together artists, community members, and supporters to celebrate creativity while raising funds for The Artist Closet. This event offers an opportunity to connect directly with creatives, learn more about their work, and purchase local artwork. Attendees can expect an inspiring atmosphere that encourages conversation, discovery, and a deeper appreciation for the local arts community.

Art For All will take place on July 25th from 7pm-9pm at Mycelium Gallery in OKC

We invite creatives of every discipline to apply to this group exhibition. We ask that every artist use at least one item sourced from The Artist Closet per piece that they display in this show.

There is no fee to apply but we do ask that artists donate a portion of their art sales from the show to The Artist Closet.

If you are an artist chosen to showcase work in this show, you will receive an acceptance email by May 4th, 2026. Applications Close on May 1st, 2026!

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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!

Applications Open: THRIVE Grants (8 Apr 2026)

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT

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

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This is a program of the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC)

Her Canvas | Women Only Art Competition (10 Apr 2026)

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Her Canvas invites women artists worldwide to submit work that reflects their voice, perspective, and creative vision. This open theme (Artist’s Choice) competition welcomes both 2D and 3D visual art across all styles and mediums, creating space for authentic expression and diverse artistic practice.

Artists are selected based on clear criteria including originality, technical skill, composition, and emotional impact. Our commitment is to fairness, professionalism, and meaningful recognition.

Selected artists will be featured in a professionally curated online exhibition, providing international exposure and the opportunity to present work to a global audience of collectors, galleries, and art admirers. Awards include cash prizes, social media promotion, direct email exposure to our art network, and an official certificate of recognition.

Entry Details
Standard: $35 for 6 images

Deadline: May 4, 2026

Submit your work: https://koisartistaward.com/women-only-fine-art-exhibition/

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This Opportunity is provided by Blue Koi Gallery and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).

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

Registration Open: Enchanted Jellyfish Wet Felted Creations with Fibers of my Soul (11 Apr 2026)

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Join in for a delightful evening at the Mycelium Gallery, where you can immerse yourself in the enchanting world of wet felting with Treka Wenner from Fibers Of My Soul.

This workshop offers a unique opportunity to craft your own whimsical jellyfish, exploring creativity and texture through the art of wet felting. Each jellyfish will be created using colorful merino wool and embellishment fibers to create beautiful and vibrant designs. The Jellies tentacles can be made of ribbon, lace, yarn or other decorative materials. A variety of tentacle materials will be provided but, if you have a favorite yarn, ribbon etc, feel free to bring it to incorporate into your creation!

Scheduled for Thursday, April 23, at 6:00 PM, this event requires no prior experience, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned artists alike.

For a fee of $70, you'll receive all the necessary materials and expert instruction.

Bring your creativity and let your imagination swim with the jellyfish!

Mycelium offers a no alcohol bar with craft canned mood enhancing drinks, sparkling waters and craft sodas.

Register Now!

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This Event is provided by Mycelium Network LLC 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!

Sign-Ups Open: Photo Studio @ Uncanny (22 Apr 2026)

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Accessibly build your portfolio, prepare for exhibitions, and enhance your online presence during our May Photo Studio session at Uncanny Art House in Norman!

Sign Up!

Sign Up Deadline: May 18, 2026
Session Day: May 21, 2026, Slots Available: 11AM–2PM

The Photo Studio only facilitates same day artwork drop-off and pick-up at the session location.

Session Cost (Up to 10 Artworks):
*OVAC Members: $50
Non-Members: $100
*OVAC Members always receive a discounted rate on OVAC Photo Studio Sessions.

Want the discount? Become an OVAC Member!

Uncanny Art House | 106 E Main St, Norman, OK 73069

Registration Open: "A People's Museum" FREE DRAWING WORKSHOP (23 Apr 2026)

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT

You're invited to contribute to this international participatory artwork by adding your own memories to the archive.

A PEOPLE'S MUSEUM: Free Drawing Workshop

1-3pm, Saturday, May 9, 2026

Positive Space Tulsa, 1324 East 3rd Street

FREE / Supplies provided / All Ages
Register

"A People’s Museum" is a socially engaged artwork by AK/OK that brings people together in the creation of an archive, telling the stories of everyday LGBTQ2S+ people. The public is invited to a free drawing workshop to contribute to this project. The resulting collection of drawings and stories will be published in an artist’s book, as an homage to the LGBTQ2S+ people we collectively remember, whose stories have largely been untold. Make LGBTQ2S+ history with us!

In conjunction with the exhibition, "A People's Museum," by AK/OK

A PEOPLE'S MUSEUM, by AK/OK

OPENING 5-8pm, Saturday, May 2, 2026 Through Saturday, May 30

About the Exhibition: "A People’s Museum" of LGBTQ2S+ History is a living archive of hand-drawn portraits and personal stories, created by people from across the US and internationally. To date, hundreds of people from more than a dozen cities have contributed to this intergenerational and intersectional project, which stands as a tribute to the LGBTQ2S+ people we collectively remember from our everyday lives, whose stories have largely remained untold. During the exhibition, the public will be invited to contribute to this international participatory artwork by adding their own memories to the archive. Make LGBTQ2S+ history with us!

About the Artists: AK/OK is an art & design collective whose research-based artwork invites public engagement with queer and feminist histories, archives, and contemporary culture. They have presented their work at venues including the Bishopsgate Institute (London), the Brooklyn Museum, Central Saint Martins (London), Brown University and RISD (Providence); and have exhibited at the Elizabeth Foundation for the Arts (New York), SOMA (Mexico City), San Francisco State University, and Fernwey Gallery (Chicago). They have been artists in residence at the Santa Fe Art Institute, the Vermont Studio Center, ACRE, and the Institute of Contemporary Art at the Maine College of Art. Their artist’s books are distributed by Printed Matter, and their work is housed in the collections of Aeromoto Library (Mexico City), the Allen Ginsberg Estate (New York), the Butler Library at Columbia University (New York), the GLBT Historical Society (San Francisco), and the National Design Archives (Denver).

Gallery hours during the exhibit: TH 6-8pm + FR 5-8pm + SA 12-5pm + BY A

More info: linktr.ee/positivespacetulsa

Contact: Nicole Finley, Founder/Director/Curator - Positive Space Tulsa

nicole@positivespacetulsa.org

Positive Space Tulsa is located at 1324 East 3rd Street in the Pearl District. Positive Space Tulsa was founded by local artist Nicole Finley (she/her). An art space dedicated to Womxn artists, Positive Space Tulsa believes: The letter “x” in Womxn recognizes all women, including gender expansive identities. Positive Space Tulsa is for women, nonbinary, genderfluid, genderqueer, and agender artists (excluding those who identify as male/men). Womxn is pronounced the same as woman or women.

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This Event is provided by Positive Space Tulsa and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).
The address for this event is: 1324 East 3rd Street Tulsa, OK, 74120

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

Arts & Culture Day (30 Apr 2026)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 13:00:00 GMT

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!

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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!

Applications Open: 12x12 Art Fundraiser Committee Members (1 May 2026)

Fri, 01 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Applications are NOW OPEN for 12x12 Art Fundraiser Committee Members!

The 12×12 Art Fundraiser, taking place on October 3rd at Dunlap Codding, is an eclectic fusion of works created by 175 Oklahoma artists available for purchase through an online auction and live entertainment, making it a memorable one-night-only art celebration! This annual event raises vital funds for all of OVAC’s programs and services, ensuring Oklahoma is a place where visual artists can thrive and make a positive impact in their communities.

By serving on the 12x12 committee, you’re not just helping OVAC—you’re also contributing to its success and impacting artists and the broader arts community while networking and engaging in professional development experiences for your own career goals!

The Timeline
Jun 5: Committee applications close
Jun 7: Committee applicants notified
Jun 11: First Committee meeting (In-Person at Dunlap Codding)
Oct 3: 12x12 Art Fundraiser event at Dunlap Codding

Apply

Questions? Reach out to Community Relations Director Fernando Calvillo, at Fernando@Ovac-Ok.Org or call (405) 879-2400 Ex. 1.

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This is a program of the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC)
Event Location: 609 W Sheridan Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102

THRIVE Office Hours with Ariana Weir-Temoshok (5 May 2026)

Tue, 05 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Reserve THRIVE Grants Office Hours to receive free, individualized guidance from OVAC's Administrative and Artist Relations Manager, Ariana Weir-Temoshok. Slots are available May 5–7, 2026. In-Person and remote options are both available.

Reserve Your Slot Today!

For assistance filling out the form, contact Ariana Weir-Temoshok, at Ariana@Ovac-Ok.Org or (405) 879-2400 Ex. 5

About THRIVE Grants:
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. All projects occur across the state of Oklahoma and are open and accessible to the public.

The Timeline:
April 8 - Applications Open!
April 23 | 12–1pm CT: THRIVE Info Webinar
May 5–7 - Office Hours by Appointment with Ariana Weir-Temoshok
June 1 - Application Deadline at 11:59PM CST
July 30 - THRIVE Grant Recipients Notified
August 2026–June 2027 - Grant Funding Period

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This is a program of the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC)

Applications Open: Grants for Artists | Education Assistance (1 Aug 2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Our Grants for Artists Education Assistance Grant application opens on August 1st with an application deadline of October 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 (OVAC)

Applications Open: Grants for Artists | Professional Basics (1 Aug 2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Our Grants for Artists Professional Basics Grant application opens on August 1st with an application deadline of October 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

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Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC)

Applications Open: Grants for Artists | Creative Projects (1 Aug 2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Our Grants for Artists Creative Projects Grant application opens on August 1st with an application deadline of October 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

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Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC)

Applications Open: Grants for Artists | Community/Artist Partnerships (1 Aug 2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Our Grants for Artists Community/Artist Partnerships Grant application opens on August 1st with an application deadline of October 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.

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Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition