This update is to help artists present their work in the most professional and engaging manner possible. These suggestions will help streamline the selection process, which contributes to successful gallery partnerships through the SFGA’s Artist Portal.
Please begin by submitting a cohesive body of work. This is particularly important for artists who work in multiple genres or styles. You are encouraged to pick one genre and then present a focused collection of your most resolved pieces. This approach underscores the jurors' desire to see a well-defined submission that best represents an artist's skills and vision.
A strong Artist Statement remains a crucial element of the submission. Please note this is not a biography, but instead it is an opportunity to clearly and personally convey the artist's inspiration and creative process, ideally within one or two engaging paragraphs.
Successful Artist Statements are written in the first person and provide insight into how the methodology and media used in the work convey the artist’s intentions. Our jurors want to understand the depth and thoughtfulness of the submitted pieces, and so do potential gallerists. Your Artist Statement is a critical component of your work, and is used by gallerists and curators when representing the work to collectors.
The jury has a growing interest in diverse art forms beyond painting. Submissions featuring 3D objects, ceramics, drawings, textiles, photography, digital art, and other media are highly encouraged, reflecting the diverse offerings of the SFGA member galleries.
Thank you for your attention to our guidelines and suggestions. We look forward to seeing your work and reviewing your submission.
FAQs:
1. What is the submission deadline for the 2025 Catalog?
The submission deadline for the 2025 Catalog is September 30, 2025. Early submissions allow for a longer presence in the Catalog. Submissions for the 2026 Catalog begin October 1,2025.
2. Can I see the current Catalog?
The SFGA Catalog cannot be accessed by the participating artists or the public. The digital Catalog is for the exclusive use of gallery and museum members, ensuring artists' works are protected from unauthorized use. Please note: The printed Pilot Program covers pictured above, may or may not be available to Catalog artists for participation in 2025.
3. How many pieces of work should I submit?
Artists must submit a minimum of three and a maximum of ten pieces. Submissions exceeding ten pieces may be considered non-compliant. Accepted submissions will only advance 3 works into the Catalog to ensure ease of use by our members.
4. I have multiple bodies of work. Should I submit a piece or two from each genre or medium?
No. Jurors seek single-genre submissions to assess focus and cohesion. Multiple styles may result in rejection.
5. I’m not sure if my submission is ready. Is there a way to get feedback?
Artists unsure about the cohesion of their work can opt for an Artist's Review, which provides expert feedback but does not guarantee acceptance. This service is currently available for $250. The SFGA is looking into creating a ramp up process for small groups. TBA
6. If my submission is rejected can I reapply?
Submissions are limited to one per year. You may reapply for the following year.
7. My submission was accepted into the Catalog. How long does my work stay in the Catalog?
We update the Catalog monthly. Accepted submissions remain in the Catalog from the date of insertion (the month after acceptance) until December 31st of the Catalog year. Accepted artists are encouraged to resubmit annually as Jurors and gallerists’ needs change.
8. My work is in the current Catalog, but those pieces have sold! What should I do?
Congratulations! We understand that work submitted may not be available when a gallery contacts you. The work in the Catalog does not have to remain available, it is meant to represent your current body of work.
9. How long does it take before I hear about the jury’s decision?
It may take 4 to 5 weeks to hear back from us. Please be patient. The jury members work to deeply consider the appropriateness of each submission on behalf of our membership. The process takes time.
10. I’m a professional artist and my submission was rejected. Now what?
Please consider the feedback you received regarding the reason(s) your submission was not accepted. Key feedback from jurors includes rejection reasons such as inconsistent body of work, weak Artist Statement, lack of professionalism (not enough work available, work ethic not in evidence, incomplete or unresolved presentation), or submission confusion due to multiple styles. Artists are urged to read the guidelines carefully, focusing on clarity and quality in their submissions and reapply for the following year.
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