Applying to the Western Art Gallery
Thank you for your interest in submitting an application to the Western Art Gallery.
The Western Art Gallery features new and emerging Western artists whose original work represents the heritage and grandeur of the West. All applications are seriously considered but as our focus is to showcase “new and emerging” artists, preference is given to western artists with five or less years of participation in the Western Art Gallery show.
Please note, this year we are introducing an on-line application form, which includes uploading images of the art to be considered, the artist’s portrait image, and the artist’s 75 word biography. While we strongly encourage artists to use the on-line application, a printed mail-in form can be obtained by emailing our Artist Liaison at lindseynetherton@gmail.com or calling (403) 886-2478 (long distance from Calgary).
The on-line application is usually available on this web site by November 1 for the following year and the deadline is in early January. Artists are required to submit photos of between 6 and 8 pieces of art with their application for consideration. All art submitted must be available for sale during the 10 days of Stampede for the upcoming year.
After the deadline date, the committee reviews each application followed by a juried artist and art selection process with all artists contacted by March of the committee’s decision. Approximately 20 to 25 artists are selected to display and sell their work in July during the Calgary Stampede.
The Western Art Gallery is an excellent avenue to showcase and sell your original western art!
Gallery Application FAQ
Below are some commonly asked questions regarding applications but please reference the Terms and Conditions as they provide a great deal of information to new artists.
How do I apply to the Western Art Gallery?
Artists must submit an application in its entirety by the deadline listed on the application. While we prefer that you submit your application using our on-line application, if you need a mail-in form, please contact lindseynetherton@gmail.com to request a form.
When will the application be available on the website?
Application packages are normally on the website by November 1 for the following year.
Why does the Western Art Gallery submission committee ask to view between 6 and 8 art pieces?
Since we generally accept about 4 pieces of art from each artist, Viewing 6 to 8 art pieces provide the jury committee with an accurate representation of the artist’s work and more choice in selecting art for the show.
Does the Western Art Gallery accept photographers’ pieces?
No. The focus of the Western Art Gallery exhibit is to showcase new and emerging original works of art. Photographs can be submitted to the Photo Gallery Committee at http://westernshowcase.calgarystampede.com/new/western_photo.htm
Are there size and/or price restrictions when submitting art to the Western Art Gallery?
There are neither size restrictions nor a prerequisite price range on the accepted pieces. Please note that art pieces within the Gallery exhibition tend to sell better if they are priced less than $1000. Further, we have limited space for displaying over-sized pieces of art.
Do I need to attend the Stampede to sell my art?
Gallery artists are not present to sell their own work during the 10 days of Stampede as all art is sold by Gallery committee volunteers. However, artists are encouraged to attend Stir’up (buyers’ night) for which they will receive an invitation.
Can non-Canadian artists apply?
Yes. The main requirement is that the art must be original and reflect a western theme (excluding west coast). This can include agriculture, farming, ranching, rodeo, First Nations, historic figures of the Old West, flora and fauna of the West, landscapes of the West and historic buildings and sites of the Old West.
Can I apply to more than one committee?
Yes. An artist can apply to more than one committee however artists that have been accepted to rent a booth will not be accepted into the Western Art Gallery show. An artist may be accepted in both the Western Art Gallery and Art Auction shows.
Is there a commission if art is accepted?
A commission of 30 per cent is deducted from the gross sale proceeds and payable to the Calgary Stampede. Payment for sold artwork could take the Stampede 4 to 6 weeks after the show.
How are the artists selected?
A jury panel, consisting of members of the Western Art Gallery Committee and others chosen by the committee view all applications and select the artists to show their work during the Western Art Show. Artists are notified of the panel’s decision by email or letter by April 2009.
How many years can an artist participate in the Western Art Gallery show?
All submissions are seriously considered however the focus of the Gallery is to give new and emerging artists to the Stampede an opportunity to showcase their work. When an artist has participated in the Gallery show for more than five years, he or she will not be considered for the gallery again. We appreciate the valuable contribution these artists have made to the success of the show and we strongly encourage them to apply to the Artist Studio (booth rental) or submit pieces to the Auction.
What is the Artists Window?
The Artist Window is a special area within the Western Art Gallery show where artists can be viewed working on pieces in their chosen medium. This art is not for sale but is an opportunity for patrons to watch the artistic process and to be exposed to a variety of art mediums.
For more information, please contact Email us and indicate “Western Art Gallery” in the subject line. |
