EXHIBITION OPPORTUNITIES WITH WCA
CALL FOR
ARTISTS
We’re looking for emerging & seasoned artists to exhibit in our gallery spaces during the 2026 Season.
Deadline to Apply: December 20, 2025
In line with our commitment to supporting emerging artists, we've created a FAQ Guide for those who may be applying for their first time or have questions!
See what it’s like to work with us
Exhibiting Artist Testimonials
“The exhibitions are always so beautifully displayed, and it’s such a thrill to see visitors admiring my work after so many long hours of creating! There’s nothing quite like it. I can’t say enough about the WCA volunteers and staff — their passion and skill in showcasing everyone’s art truly shine. I’ve been fortunate to have exhibited here twice and have enjoyed the experience immensely each time!”
— Robin Rice
“It was wonderful to have a show again at WCA — it brought back such lovely memories of the early days exhibiting at Rawhide and Jellyroll. Friends from Dauphin, Brandon, and the surrounding area came for the opening, and it was amazing to see how the gallery has grown and blossomed over the years.
A real highlight for me was seeing the buffalo at Lake Audy and meeting other artists, like Fredrick Spence, and his incredible buffalo carvings. Working with the WCA staff to install the show was an absolute breeze! I’m so glad I could be part of the 55th Celebration Exhibition.”
— Kathleen Baleja
Let’s see
your art!
Apply Today
Deadline
Dec 20, 2025
Apply Today.
We’re looking for emerging and established artists to exhibit in our gallery spaces during the 2026 Season.
We have four exhibition slots: May-June, June-July, July-August, and August-September. Each exhibition will feature the work of 3-5 talented artists and collectives.
In line with our commitment to supporting and mentoring emerging artists, we've created an FAQ Guide for those applying for their first time or have questions about the process. We encourage everyone to apply — even if you’re still developing your series or finalizing pieces.
Selections will be made through a juried panel process conducted by WCA's Exhibition Committee. All artists will be notified of the results in January 2026.
Interested in applying? Click here or on the button above to complete your application form. Tips on writing your Artist Bio and Artistic Statement can be found below.
If you have any questions, please contact WCA President Ken Romaniuk at wasagamingartspresident@gmail.com or explore the FAQ section below for more info.
Tips for writing your Artist Bio!
Your artist bio tells the story of you — who you are as an artist, where you’re from, and what inspires your work. It’s your introduction to the gallery and visitors, helping them understand the person behind the art.
Here are a few quick tips to help you craft a strong artist bio. Every artist’s story is different — trust your voice and go with what feels right.
Write in the third person (use your name, not “I”)
Mention your medium, style or themes early on
Include where you’re based and any relevant background (training, influence, or community ties)
Share a bit about your recent work, exhibitions, or artistic goals
Aim for 150-200 words — short, clear, and engaging.
Examples of Artist Bio
The examples below are fictional and intended to illustrate different approaches to writing an artist bio.
“Alex Morgan is a self-taught painter based in Brandon, Manitoba. Working primarily in acrylic, Alex explores the colours and textures of the prairie landscape, inspired by drives to Riding Mountain National Park and childhood visits to his grandparents’ farm. His work combines loose brushstrokes and layered colour to capture the changing light and quiet rhythms of rural life. Alex has participated in several art workshops in the Westman Region and is excited to share his work with new audiences at WCA.”
“Riley Chen is a mixed-media artist whose work examines memory and place through the layering of found materials, collage, and printmaking. Originally from Saskatoon, Riley studied Fine Arts at the University of Regina and has exhibited in group shows across the province. Their recent work explores the intersection of urban and natural spaces, using recycled paper and organic dyes to reflect environmental change and renewal. In October 2026, Riley will be exhibiting at Gallery in Winnipeg with a new series on renewal and resilience.”
Tips for writing your Artistic Statement!
Your artistic (or exhibition) statement is your chance to share the ideas behind your work — what inspires you, what themes you explore, and what you hope people might take away from your art.
While your artist bio focuses on who you are as an artist, your artist statement focuses on what your art is about.
Helpful Tips & Prompts:
Describe what your work explores — the ideas, stories, or questions behind it.
Mention your medium, materials, or process and why you use them?
Share what inspires your practice — places, experiences, people, or emotions.
Keep it authentic and conversational — write the way you’d explain your art to a friend.
Perfectly fine to write in the first person (using “I” or “my”).
Avoid jargon or overly academic language; clarity helps people connect.
Aim for 1–2 short paragraphs (around 100–250 words).
Example of an Artistic Statement
“My ceramic work explores texture, imperfection, and the connection between human touch and the natural world. I use hand-built forms and locally sourced clay to reflect the landscape of Manitoba and the organic shapes found in nature. Each piece is intentionally uneven — a little reminder that beauty often lies in what’s handmade and imperfect.”
FAQ & Guide
Who can apply?
We welcome applications from emerging and established artists working in all visual media. You don’t need to have exhibited before — we encourage artists at all stages of their careers to apply. In fact, WCA takes pride in offering emerging artists their first exhibition opportunities.
What types of artworks can be submitted?
We accept a wide range of media, including painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, mixed media, fabric/textile art, ceramics, or sculpture.
If your work involves unusual materials, requires special installation considerations or needs unique hanging equipment —please include that information in your application so our team can review feasibility.
How many artists are featured in each exhibition?
Each show features 3-5 artists or collectives, sharing our gallery space over a 3-4 week period.
Because this is a shared exhibition opportunity, our curator and Board work with each artist to determine the final selection and placement of works. We consider space, cohesion, and visitor experience carefully to ensure that each exhibition feels balanced and thoughtfully curated for all participants.
Do I have to be from the Riding Mountain or Clear Lake area to apply?
Not at all! While we love showcasing local artists, WCA welcomes submissions from artists across Manitoba and beyond.
Can I apply if my body of work isn’t completed yet?
Yes! Many artists apply with works-in-progress or planned series. Just be clear about your concept and what you’re developing — this helps the committee understand your vision.
We understand that your selection may evolve, and you might wish to add or remove works before the exhibition. If selected as an Exhibition Artist, our curator and Board will work closely with you to finalize which pieces will be displayed.
Please note that, due to space considerations and the shared nature of our exhibitions, not all proposed works may be included. We strive to maintain balance, cohesion, and fairness among exhibiting artists while ensuring that all works are suitable for our gallery and visitors. (Maximum number of works: 10-12, depending on size).
I’m nervous — I’ve never exhibited before and I don’t know if I’m “good enough”. Any advice?
You’re in the right place! WCA is committed to supporting and mentoring emerging artists. Our best advice:
Be yourself and show your genuine voice.
Include clear photos of your work (they don’t have to be perfect).
Keep your artist bio & artistic statement simple and heartfelt — no need for jargon! Our team can work with you once you’re selected to refine the written materials for the exhibition.
Ask questions — we’re here to help.
Can I sell my artwork during the exhibition?
Yes! Artists are welcome to make their work available for sale — though there’s absolutely no pressure to do so. WCA retains a 30% commission on sales to help support our exhibition opportunities and non-profit programming. If you’re unsure how to price your work, our team is happy to offer guidance and help you establish a fair and accessible price point.
Can I request a specific exhibition slot?
Yes! The application form includes a space to indicate your preferred exhibition slot. We’ll do our best to accommodate your preference, though scheduling depends on availability and the overall balance of the season’s program. If you’re selected as an Exhibition Artist and the proposed dates don’t work for you, we’ll be happy to discuss alternative options where possible.
How are exhibition artists selected?
Submissions are reviewed by our WCA Exhibition Committee, a juried panel made up of Board members. Selections are based on artistic merit, creativity, presentation, and how the works complement the season’s overall programming.
What happens if I’m selected?
If your application is successful, we’ll notify you in January 2026 and invite you to a Zoom orientation session in February/March to go over details like timelines, transport of artwork, installation, and opening receptions.
How do I get my artwork to WCA?
Artists are asked to arrange the delivery and pick-up of their artwork to and from Wasagaming Community Arts. We understand that travel to Riding Mountain National Park can require planning, and we aim to be as flexible as possible.
Whenever feasible, WCA can help connect artists who may wish to coordinate transport or delivery together. In select instances, Board members may be able to assist with transporting artwork from Winnipeg or Brandon, depending on availability and timing.
All artworks are handled with care and monitored by gallery staff while on display.
What does WCA provide for exhibiting artists?
Exhibiting artists receive a three-week gallery showing in a professional, staffed space at Wasagaming Community Arts, located in the heart of Riding Mountain National Park.
WCA provides:
A professional, staffed gallery space with high visitor traffic throughout the summer season
Marketing and promotion through our website, social media, newsletters, and local networks
Support for exhibition installation and coordination of opening receptions
A welcoming, community-focused environment that celebrates artists at all stages of their careers
An artist honorarium, recognizing your participation in our annual exhibition program