Fay Chandler Emerging Art Exhibition

The Fay Chandler Emerging Art Exhibition awards recognize contemporary artworks by local emerging artists.

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The annual Fay Chandler Emerging Art Exhibition at the Boston City Hall Galleries is a celebration of the vibrant Boston visual arts community. Artists who live, work, or create in the Greater Boston area are encouraged to apply each year. Hosted by the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture, the Fay Chandler Emerging Art Exhibition features contemporary artworks by local emerging artists. Inspired by Fay Chandler, a Boston philanthropist and arts advocate, this exhibition celebrates emerging artists of all ages. Chandler, who began her artistic journey later in life, is a symbol of inspiration and perseverance for our community.

This exhibition is possible thanks to the generosity of the Fay Chandler family.

Update: The 2025 Fay Chandler Emerging Art Exhibition call for art is now closed. Stay tuned for details about this year's exhibition and to find out the winners of the 2025 awards!

Details and Exhibition Space

ELIGIBILITY

This opportunity is for artists who:

Live or work in the Greater Boston area (Essex, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth or Suffolk County)
Are 18 years of age or older
Are early in their careers, regardless of age, with ambitious goals and demonstrated artistic potential. This might include but is not limited to:
- Someone who has been creating work for five years or less
- Recent or current students
- Someone who has a limited exhibition history
Applicants whose work explores themes such as identity, equity, climate change, housing accessibility, civil rights or social issues are strongly encouraged to apply
Artists represented by a commercial gallery are ineligible
Artists previously accepted in this exhibition are ineligible

PRIZES

Best in Show: $3,000
50+: $2,000
New Voice: $2,000
Three Juror’s Choice Awards: $500 each

EXHIBITION DETAILS & Artwork Specifications

Artists may submit up to 3 artworks for consideration. If accepted, one work will be displayed.
All media are welcome, subject to installation requirements and space limitations.
2D artworks must be ready to hang (please review our Installation Guide) and be no longer than 30 x 30 in. (including frame).
3D artworks cannot exceed 18in. in diameter.
All artwork submitted must have been created within the last 3 years.
Artists selected for the exhibition will be notified by October 20, 2025.