Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition upcoming events

Call for Portrait Artists: Elara Caring (23 Apr 2025)

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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

$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!

Apps Open: Soonercon Art Show (25 Feb 2026)

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Soonercon has opened applications for the annual Soonercon Art Show and sale. This event hosts one of the largest pop culture-, fantasy-, and sci-fi-themed art exhibits in the Southwest, held concurrently with Soonercon in Norman, Oklahoma.

This juried gallery is open during the convention (June 19-21) and all artwork displayed is available for purchase as part of a Silent Auction. Artists do not need to attend Soonercon in order to participate, but only Soonercon members will be able to view and purchase artwork during the Art Show.

Applications are open to 2D and 3D media, including paintings, sculptures, digital manipulations, jewelry, prints, pottery, etc. Artists may rent a grid panel space for 2D work, or a shelf space to display 3D work, and are encouraged to curate this space. Adherence to the "pop culture/sci-fi/fantasy" theme of the event is not a requirement for acceptance but may be considered as part of the jury process.

Learn more and apply

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This Opportunity is provided by Future Society of Oklahoma and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).
The address for this event is: 2501 Conference Dr., Norman, Oklahoma 73069

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

Applications Open: Art Crit Night (11 Mar 2026)

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Applications are OPEN for our next Art Crit Night on May 20, 2026 at Uncanny Art House in Norman, Oklahoma. Participating artists receive a $100 honorarium.

Featuring Guest Curator, KT Duffy

Application Deadline: April 20, 2026 at 11:59PM CT
This application is free and open to all Oklahoma residents.
Apply Now

What is Art Crit Night?
Art Crit Night is a free to attend art critique event featuring two local artists who present their work during a curator-led discussion. Artists, arts professionals, collectors, and anyone curious about joining the conversation can look forward to a relaxed evening of engaging discussion and mingling with art friends.

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

Oklahoma Contemporary | 11 NW 11th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73103

Apps Open: "Under The Sea" An Underwater Theme Art Show (14 Mar 2026)

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

"Under the Sea"

What lurks below the surface of the big open blue water? Creatures, aquatic flora, sunken treasure and mysterious lore? You show us with your creative vision!

Apply today!

Opening Show: April 18th 7-9PM

Tickets to the show will be available for purchase online and at the door on opening night.

Show will run until May 10th

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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!

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.

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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!

Registration Open: Embodiment Drawing Workshop + Artist Talk with Sydney McLeod (27 Mar 2026)

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Embodiment Drawing Workshop + Artist Talk with Artist and OVAC Member, Sydney McLeod

1-2pm, Saturday, April 11, 2026

Drawing Supplies Provided / Donation-based / Max 20 participants

Positive Space Tulsa, 1324 East 3rd Street

For this workshop, Artist Sydney McLeod will lead participants to explore self-portraiture using mirrors and blind contour drawing in order to engage with our self-image outside of social media, experimenting with an array of different drawing materials. By using blind couture drawing we engage with what we see on a deeper level, and lower the stakes of creating a ‘good’ image which allows for a playful approach.

This project was supported by the Artists Creative Fund.

About the Artist: Sydney McLeod is a charcoal artist, draftsman and bookbinder working out of Tulsa, OK. They graduated from Pacific Northwest College of Art in Portland, OR with a concentration in printmaking in 2019. Since 2017, their work has focused on the language and connotations of chronic pain and invisible illness as it coincides with their experience. After receiving the Artists Creative Fund Grant in 2025, Sydn

ey has been building bridges between drawing and bookmaking through installation.

More info: linktr.ee/positivespacetulsa

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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!

Sign-Ups Open: Photo Studio @ Paseo (1 Apr 2026)

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Accessibly build your portfolio, prepare for exhibitions, and enhance your online presence during our December Photo Studio session at Paseo Arts & Creativity Center in Oklahoma City!

Sign Up!

Sign up Deadline: April 20, 2026
Session Day: April 26, 2026, Slots Available: 8am–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!

Paseo Arts & Creativity Center | 3024 Paseo, Oklahoma City, OK 73103

Spring Artist Market: Call for Artists, Crafters, Vendors, Creatives (1 Apr 2026)

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT

The Museum of the Red River is excited to host our Spring Artist Market for May! We invite and encourage creatives to apply. This family-friendly event is free, open to the public and offers artists, makers and other creatives to sell their work while demonstrating their art with visitors.

The event takes place over two days. It is ok if applicants cannot be here both days, but would still like to participate.

There is a refundable $25 deposit that will be returned upon the opening day of the Artist Market or, if applicants can only be here on one of the days, the day they have indicated they will be here.

If you are interested in participating, please contact the

Museum of the Red River (580) 286-3616 for more information. We look forward to hosting creatives!

Apply

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This Opportunity is provided by Museum of the Red River and is not in direct affiliation with Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).
The address for this event is: {Event_Address}

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)

ASK Workshop: Staying Creative in Chaos (13 Apr 2026)

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 23:00:00 GMT

This interactive virtual workshop, taught by Isa Rodriguez from Practice, Practice, supports artists navigating change and upheaval. Participants will explore how artists have embraced creativity during times of chaos, learn how consistent creative practice can support the nervous system, work with their natural creative cycles, develop strategies for creative block, identify their creative core, and build a personal “creative anchor”: an everyday practice that sustains creativity even on the most difficult days.

Registration Deadline: April 9th, 2026
Registration cost is on a sliding scale starting at $20
Workshop Days: April 13, 2026, April 20, 2026 & April 27, 2026 | 6–7:30pm CT
Attendance of all three days is highly encouraged

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

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

ASK Workshop: Staying Creative in Chaos (20 Apr 2026)

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 23:00:00 GMT

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

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

THRIVE Info Webinar (23 Apr 2026)

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Join us for a free info webinar on April 23rd from 12–1pm CT about THRIVE Grants, OVAC's annual granting program that offers $5,000 to $10,000 of individual funding to visual artists across the state.

In this session Ariana will cover: What materials you need to apply, what kind of projects get funded, what to expect if you are awarded a grant, and have an opportunity to ask specific questions.

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 CT
July 30 - THRIVE Grant Recipients Notified
August 2026–June 2027 - Grant Funding Period

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

This webinar is free and open to the public. A recording of the webinar will be published online following the event. A Zoom link will be sent to the registrants email.

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

ASK Workshop: Staying Creative in Chaos (27 Apr 2026)

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 23:00:00 GMT

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

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!

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