Open Call · Juried Virtual Exhibition

Cats, Dogs
& Stories

The Women in Arts Network invites women and non-binary artists from around the world to submit work exploring the many ways cats and dogs are part of our lives, memories, cultures and creative expression.

Submissions close in
00Days
00Hours
00Minutes
00Seconds
Submissions for this exhibition are now closed.
15+exhibitions presented
800+artists exhibited
01
About the opportunity

About the exhibition

Cats and dogs have appeared in art for centuries, as companions, symbols, protectors, working animals and beloved members of everyday life.

From ancient Egyptian depictions of cats to dogs in paintings, sculptures, ceramics, manuscripts and everyday imagery across cultures, these animals have long been part of visual storytelling.

Today they continue to inspire artists in deeply personal ways. They can represent companionship, love, loyalty, playfulness, comfort, family, memory, personality, connection, loss, or simply the joy of sharing life with an animal.

Cats, Dogs & Stories brings these perspectives together in a curated virtual exhibition hosted by the Women in Arts Network. Selected works will be presented in an online gallery open to art enthusiasts, collectors, curators, fellow artists and audiences everywhere.

Apply now Deadline: November 9, 2026 · 00 days left
02
The theme

Interpreting Cats, Dogs & Stories

The theme is intentionally open. Your artwork does not need to be a traditional pet portrait.

Artists are invited to interpret the theme in their own way. Your work may be inspired by a beloved pet, a childhood memory, a particular animal's personality, an everyday moment, a relationship, a cultural or historical reference, or an imagined story.

Ideas you might explore
LoveCompanionshipFriendshipLoyaltyPlayfulnessComfortFamilyMemoryLossPersonalityConnectionHumourCuriosityTrustThe human and animal bond
The animal can be
The main subjectA small detailA symbolA characterPart of a larger story
Your work can be
RealisticAbstractSymbolicExpressiveHumorousImaginativeHistoricalContemporary
What story does a cat or dog hold for you? What does it represent in your life, and how can you tell that story through art?
Apply now Deadline: November 9, 2026 · 00 days left
03
Why take part

What selected artists receive

Each exhibition creates a space for artists to present their work, reach new audiences and join a growing community of women and non-binary artists.

15+exhibitions presented by the Women in Arts Network in the past two years
800+artists from around the world featured in those exhibitions
  • Exhibit your work in a curated virtual group exhibition alongside artists from around the world
  • Add an exhibition credit to your CV, website, portfolio and exhibition history
  • Professional presentation of your work in our online gallery
  • Reach new audiences who can discover your work and explore your portfolio
  • Selected through a juried process, so your inclusion reflects the quality of your work
  • Digital certificate of participation for selected artists
  • Promotion across the Women in Arts Network's digital platforms
  • Optional Artist Interview to share your journey, process and the story behind your work
For emerging artistsA chance to build exhibition experience and strengthen a growing portfolio.
For established artistsAnother space to present your work, explore a familiar subject from a new angle and connect with new audiences.
Apply now Deadline: November 9, 2026 · 00 days left
04
Eligibility

Who can apply

We welcome artists at every stage, from those building a first exhibition record to artists with years of professional experience.

Who
Women artists and non-binary artists
Age
18 and above
Location
Open to artists from anywhere in the world
Experience
All career stages. First-time exhibitors, recent graduates (BFA, MFA) and established artists are all welcome.
Mediums
Painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, illustration, digital art, mixed media, textile art, collage, video art, installation, and contemporary and experimental practices
Styles
Figurative, abstract, conceptual, expressive, symbolic, realistic, imaginative, humorous or experimental
Artwork
Must be your own original work
Apply now Deadline: November 9, 2026 · 00 days left
05
Process

How to apply

Applications are made through the form on this page. Have your images and details ready before you start.

  1. Fill in your details

    Complete the application form with your contact information, artist details and artwork information.

  2. Upload your artworks

    Upload up to 3 artworks that respond to the theme Cats, Dogs & Stories.

  3. Choose the interview (optional)

    If you would like to share more about your practice, add the Artist Interview Feature during your application.

  4. Submit and pay

    Submit your application and complete the application fee payment.

  5. Jury review

    The selection panel reviews every submission for artistic quality, originality, technical execution, connection to the theme and overall presentation. All applicants are notified by email within three weeks of the deadline.

What to have ready

  • Up to 3 artwork images, JPG or PNG, under 5 MB each
  • Title, medium, size and year for each artwork
  • A short bio about you as an artist
  • A professional headshot (no selfies)
  • Your website and Instagram, if you have them
  • Your full postal address

Please note

  • You may apply for the Virtual Exhibition only, or the Virtual Exhibition with the Artist Interview Feature.
  • Submitting an application and paying the fee does not guarantee selection.
  • All decisions made by the selection panel are final.
  • All artwork submitted must be your own original work.
  • By submitting, you confirm you hold the rights to the artwork and that your information is accurate.
  • You keep full ownership and copyright of your work. Please read the Artist Publishing Agreement in the form before submitting.
Apply now Deadline: November 9, 2026 · 00 days left
06
Fees

Participation options

Choose one of two options when you apply. Whichever you choose, your work is considered for the exhibition in the same way.

Option 1

Virtual Exhibition

$15 USD
  • Submission of up to 3 artworks
  • Inclusion in the juried selection process
  • Feature in the Cats, Dogs & Stories virtual exhibition if selected
  • Professional online presentation of your artwork
  • Digital certificate of participation if selected
Option 2

Virtual Exhibition + Artist Interview

$34 USD ($15 + $19 add-on)
  • Everything in Option 1, plus if selected:
  • A dedicated artist interview published on the Women in Arts Network website
  • Space to share your journey, creative process, inspirations and the story behind your work
  • Promotion across our digital platforms
  • An online feature to share on your portfolio, website, CV, grant applications and professional profile

All application fees are non-refundable. They support the administration, review, curation, exhibition development and promotion of this opportunity. Payment does not guarantee selection.

Apply now Deadline: November 9, 2026 · 00 days left
07
Key dates

Deadline

We encourage you to apply early to avoid any last-minute issues with uploads or payment.

Submissions open
Now

Applications are being accepted through the form below.

Submission deadline
November 9, 2026

Applications must be submitted before the deadline to be considered.

Selection notification
Within 3 weeks

All applicants hear back by email once the jury process is complete.

Apply now Deadline: November 9, 2026 · 00 days left
Application form

Apply now

Complete the form below to submit up to 3 artworks. Deadline: November 9, 2026. Please read the Artist Publishing Agreement at the end of the form before submitting.

Virtual Exhibition - Cats, Dogs & Stories (#173)

Application Fee


Artwork Images

Number of images you will upload for the jury to review.


Maximum Artwork Image size should be less than 5 MB & must be in JPG & PNG format only
Maximum Artwork Image size should be less than 5 MB & must be in JPG & PNG format only
Maximum Artwork Image size should be less than 5 MB & must be in JPG & PNG format only

Add On (Optional)


Note: "As a self-funded small organization, we depend on submission fees to help cover our operational costs. These fees contribute to the expenses related to publishing, editing, and promoting our content, as well as maintaining our website and server costs. Please note that this fee is non-refundable, as it allows us to continue providing a platform for showcasing emerging artists like yourself. We appreciate your understanding and support regarding this matter"


Please read them carefully before you submit your form.


Artist Publishing Agreement


I identified as “The Artist”, hereby grant permission and express my consent to have my artwork featured in the Women In Arts Network's "Online Exhibition + Interview". I also authorize the display of my artwork on digital platforms, including the website www.womeninartsnetwork.com and various social media outlets affiliated with the project.


By providing my consent, I acknowledge and agree to the following stipulations:

License Provision: I hereby provide Women In Arts Network and its affiliated platforms a non-exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free license to reproduce, distribute, display, and promote my artwork in relation to the Women In Arts publication, their website, and social media accounts.


Modes of Display: My artwork will be displayed in print and digital formats. This includes the project’s website, and any social media platforms associated with the project, including but not limited to Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.


Validity Period: This agreement is valid for all subsequent digital and online renditions. While Women In Arts Network retains the right to keep the printed and online versions of the publication available indefinitely, I will continue to hold ownership and copyright of my artwork.


Credit Acknowledgment: Women In Arts Network will make earnest efforts to ensure accurate attribution of my artwork by incorporating my name and relevant credits each time my work is published or shared. However, I comprehend that the Women In Arts Network cannot be held accountable for any unauthorized third-party use of my artwork.


Non-Monetary Benefits: As a condition for this agreement, I acknowledge that my participation in the Women In Arts Network and its associated platforms will offer exposure and promotional opportunities for my work. I understand that I will not receive any financial compensation for the publication of my artwork.


Exemption from Liability: I hereby release Women In Arts Network, its employees, representatives, and affiliates from any liability or claims that may arise from the publication, distribution, or display of my artwork.


Consent Revocation: I understand that I retain the right to request the removal of my artwork from future digital and online use by writing to the Women In Arts Network.


By signing below or providing my electronic consent, I confirm that I have thoroughly read and understood the stipulations of this Artist Agreement for Publication and agree to comply with its conditions.

We will not be held responsible or offer refund if you choose pay now and fill before deadline and fail to submit before the link closes

Payment Summary


No payment items has been selected yet
Apply Coupon
The letters in the coupon code must be in UPPERCASE.
RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. Paypal for major global payments recommended 2. Razorpay for Indian & International Payments 3 . Stripe for US & other international Cards Incase of any payment related issue, Drop us an email and we will send get back to you withion a 15-20 mins.
Questions

Frequently asked questions

Can't find your answer? Write to us at info@womeninartsnetwork.com

General

What is this open call about?

It is a call for women and non-binary artists to submit work responding to the theme Cats, Dogs & Stories. Selected works will be shown in a juried virtual exhibition hosted by the Women in Arts Network.

Who is organizing this?

The Women in Arts Network, a platform dedicated to supporting women and non-binary artists. In the past two years we have presented 15+ exhibitions featuring more than 800 artists.

Is there a fee to apply?

Yes. The application fee is $15 USD for up to 3 artworks. The optional Artist Interview Feature is an additional $19 USD ($34 total).

Eligibility

Who can apply?

Women artists and non-binary artists aged 18 and above, from anywhere in the world.

Do I need to be a professional artist?

No. We welcome artists at every stage, from first-time exhibitors to established professionals.

What types of work can I submit?

All visual media, including painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, illustration, digital art, mixed media, textiles, collage, video, installation and experimental practices. Submit 3D and video work as clear photographs or stills.

Can I submit more than one piece?

Yes. You can submit up to 3 artworks in one application.

I recently graduated from a BFA or MFA. Can I apply?

Yes. Recent graduates are welcome to apply.

Application and selection

How do I apply?

Complete the application form on this page, upload up to 3 artworks, choose your participation option and pay the application fee.

What information do I need to include?

Your contact details and address, a short artist bio, a professional headshot, your website or Instagram if you have them, and for each artwork an image (JPG or PNG, under 5 MB) with its title, medium, size and year.

How are submissions selected?

A selection panel reviews every submission for artistic quality, originality, technical execution, connection to the theme and overall presentation. All decisions are final.

When will I know if I have been selected?

All applicants are notified by email within three weeks of the November 9, 2026 deadline.

What if I miss the deadline?

Applications received after November 9, 2026 cannot be considered. We recommend applying early.

Can I edit my application after submitting?

Please email info@womeninartsnetwork.com before the deadline with your name and the change you need.

The exhibition

What is the online exhibition?

A curated virtual exhibition presented through the Women in Arts Network's online gallery, where selected works are shown together with full artist credit.

Will all submissions be featured?

No. This is a juried exhibition, and only works selected by the panel will be shown.

How will people view the exhibition?

The exhibition is online, so anyone can view it from anywhere. It is also promoted across the Women in Arts Network's digital platforms.

Do I keep the rights to my work?

Yes. You keep full ownership and copyright. You give the Women in Arts Network a non-exclusive licence to display and promote your work in connection with the exhibition, always with credit. You can request removal from future digital use at any time.

Artist Interview

What is the Artist Interview Feature?

An optional $19 add-on. If your work is selected, we publish a dedicated interview with you on the Women in Arts Network website about your journey, process, inspirations and the story behind your work.

Do I have to choose the interview?

No. It is completely optional. You can apply for the Virtual Exhibition only.

How will I know if I have been selected for the interview?

If you chose the interview and your work is selected for the exhibition, your interview is included. We will contact you by email with the next steps.

Apply now Deadline: November 9, 2026 · 00 days left
Deadline: November 9, 2026

Share your story with us

Up to 3 artworks. Juried selection. Results within three weeks.

00Days
00Hours
00Minutes
00Seconds
Submissions for this exhibition are now closed.
Apply now