We make choices daily related to the things we care about. Our actions or our lack of actions impact others around us, which in turn can influence and inspire our collective efforts towards a promising and sustainable future.
We are interconnected as a Global Jamat. By exploring the relationship between our personal interconnectivity and how it influences the care we extend to the things we share, such as our planet, our environment, our Jamat, our heritage, and ourselves, we can strengthen our identity and also unitedly address the crucial challenges of our era.
- Care for our Planet
- Care for our Communities
- Care for our Families
- Care for Humanity
- Care for our Heritage
- Care for ourselves
Please incorporate this theme in the development of your piece—express what you care about through your art.
- Eligibility
- Code of Conduct
- Regional Eligibility
- Important Considerations
- Disclaimer
- Regional Contacts
Eligibility
- There is no minimum age requirement for participating in the National Arts Festival. The festival offers both a “youth” and an “open” category. Participants under 18 as of 31 May 2024 may submit under the ‘youth’ category. Participants aged 18 and over will fall under the ‘open’ category.
- Artists participating as a group will be placed in the age category based on the oldest participant in their group. For example, if a dance group has a single member who is 18 years or older, they will be required to participate in the “open” category and cannot submit through the “youth” category.
- Participants in the National Arts Festival must either be an Ismaili Muslim, be married to an Ismaili Muslim (including by common-law) or be the child of an Ismaili Muslim.
- Participants in the National Arts Festival must reside in Canada. Participants must reside in Canada up to six (6) months prior to regional festival.
- An Artist may only represent one Jurisdiction.
- Participants in the National Arts Festival may try out regionally for several Art Categories; however, they may only compete in a single Art Category at the National Arts Festival. Participants may be allowed to participate in a maximum of one solo submission and one team submission per subcategory.
- To be eligible to participate in the 2024 International Arts Festival, an Artist must take part in the National Arts Festival.
- If you are selected to participate in the National Performing Arts or National Sports Festival, you may choose to enter the Visual Arts and FIlm Festival, however, will not qualify to advance to the National Visual Arts and Film Festivals.
Code of Conduct
All Artists attending regional competitions, or representing their region at the National Arts Festival, agree to demonstrate integrity, professionalism and respect. Any Artist who has been found in violation of the Code of Conduct may be disqualified from the selection process or from competing at the National Arts Festival.
Plagiarism is strictly not permitted in any way, shape or form. If the Organizing Team learns at any time that the Artist is responsible for submitting an entry and was not the original creator of the work that he/she claims he/she created or plagiarized the work in any way, the Artist will be disqualified from participation at the National and International Arts Festival.
Changes to winning submissions at regional levels will not be accepted once they’re submitted. Entries with changes will be disqualified.
Regional Eligibility
Regions
- Seven regions will be represented at the National Arts Festival: British Columbia, Prairies, Edmonton, City of Toronto, Southwest Ontario, Northeast Ontario and Quebec & Maritimes. An Artist may only try out for and represent a single region.
- A member of a regional or national organizing team may participate as an artist or athlete at the regional and national level but will not be allowed to be part of any judging at these levels.
- A volunteer cannot be on a regional and national organizing team and the Global Encounters Festival organizing team at the same time.
- All regional qualification events will be managed and funded regionally
- Each region will manage the organization of events to showcase submissions
- Qualifying criteria has been defined for each Arts Category and will be followed by all regions consistently
- Any submissions that deviate from the defined criteria will be disqualified from advancing to the National Arts Festival.
- All participants must register and complete the submission process using the registration system and can do so in either English or French. Work may not be changed after submission to the first qualifying round for the National Arts Festival, unless requested by the National Organizing Team.
- For Performing Arts, there will be organized showcasing events where each performance will be recorded and judged anonymously through an independent judging review. This process will be managed by each respective region utilizing national standards for consistency.
- Processes related to Film Festival and Art Gallery showcasing, judging and submissions will be released at a future date.
- For team submissions, the team lead is responsible for submitting the art piece on behalf of the team. Each team member must pay their own registration fee. All team members listed by the team lead must register on the Illume Registration Portal for the submission to be valid.
Important Considerations
- Artists are not required to create an original performance for Performing Arts Showcase. Artists may perform music, poetry, songs, dance styles and other performances that were created by others. However, artists must obtain all necessary licenses and permissions from the authors of the work. Artists must provide evidence of these permissions upon request. Credit must be given to the creators and owners of all performances.
- All content must be deemed appropriate for audiences of all ages. Following are some examples of content that would not be considered appropriate for the Performing Arts Showcase:
- Images of the Imams or Mawlana Hazar Imam's family Personal Standard of Mawlana Hazar Imam, Imamat Crest, Ismaili Flag, Nashid al-Imamah, Taj, Volunteer Badge, Jubilee Logos, AKDN and other Institutional logos
- Clear images of children (under 18) without the documented consent of a parent or legal guardian
- Foul or offensive images or language (e.g., nudity, excessive violence, sexually suggestive images or language, profanity)
- Subliminal messages to inappropriate or offensive statements
- Sexually suggestive or other provocative dance moves
- Content that has implied meanings/messages that are deemed inappropriate
- Art submissions that include content relating to the practice of the faith, religious ceremonies, or rituals that are performed within the Jamatkhanas will not be permitted at the National and international Arts Festivals. Use of dua, farmans, ginans, qasidas, madohs, zikr, or other religious rituals as background music, backdrops, or dialogues for films are some examples that will not be permitted in the Performing Arts Showcase.
- All the submissions for the Art Gallery must be conceived by and created by the artist(s) who submit(s) the work.
- All content must be deemed appropriate for audiences of all ages. Following are some examples of content that would not be considered appropriate for the Art Gallery:
- Images of the Imams or Mawlana Hazar Imam's family Personal Standard of Mawlana Hazar Imam, Imamat Crest, Ismaili Flag, Nashid al-Imamah, Taj, Volunteer Badge, Jubilee Logos, AKDN and other Institutional logos
- Clear images of children (under 18) without the documented consent of a parent or legal guardian
- Foul or offensive images or language (e.g., nudity, excessive violence, sexually suggestive images or language, profanity)
- Subliminal messages to inappropriate or offensive statements
- Sexually suggestive or other provocative dance moves
- Content that has implied meanings/messages that are deemed inappropriate
- Art submissions that include content relating to the practice of the faith, religious ceremonies, or rituals that are performed within the Jamatkhanas will not be permitted at the National and international Arts Festivals. Use of dua, farmans, ginans, qasidas, madohs, zikr, or other religious rituals as background music, backdrops, or dialogues for films are some examples that will not be permitted in the Art Gallery.
- All submissions for Film Festival must be conceived by and created by the artist(s) who submit(s) the work. Please ensure that submissions for the Film Festival are not works submitted in previous Jubilee Arts Festivals. There is also no time/year restriction on when the film was produced.
- All content must be deemed appropriate for audiences of all ages. Following are some examples of content that would not be considered appropriate for the Film Festival:
- Images of the Imams or Mawlana Hazar Imam's family Personal Standard of Mawlana Hazar Imam, Imamat Crest, Ismaili Flag, Nashid al-Imamah, Taj, Volunteer Badge, Jubilee Logos, AKDN and other Institutional logos
- Clear images of children (under 18) without the documented consent of a parent or legal guardian
- Foul or offensive images or language (e.g., nudity, excessive violence, sexually suggestive images or language, profanity)
- Subliminal messages to inappropriate or offensive statements
- Sexually suggestive or other provocative dance moves
- Content that has implied meanings/messages that are deemed inappropriate
- Art submissions that include content relating to the practice of the faith, religious ceremonies, or rituals that are performed within the Jamatkhanas will not be permitted at the National and international Arts Festivals. Use of dua, farmans, ginans, qasidas, madohs, zikr, or other religious rituals as background music, backdrops, or dialogues for films are some examples that will not be permitted in the Film Festival.
Disclaimer
All rules and regulations contained here in this document are subject to change at the discretion of the National Organizing Team for the purpose of improving the quality and increased participation.
Regional Contacts
- BC: BCArts_illume@iicanada.net
- Prairies: PrairiesArts_illume@iicanada.net
- Edmonton: EdmontonArts_illume@iicanada.net
- Toronto: TorontoArts_illume@iicanada.net
- NE Ontario: NEOntarioArts_illume@iicanada.net
- SW Ontario: SWOntarioArts_illume@iicanada.net
- Quebec & Maritimes: QuebecMaritimesArts_illume@iicanada.net
General
The Performing Arts Showcase features four (4) categories for both “youth” and “open” categories. There is no minimum age requirement for participating in the National Arts Festival. The festival offers both a “youth” and an “open” category. Participants under 18 as of 31 May 2024 may submit under the ‘youth’ category. Participants aged 18 and over will fall under the ‘open’ category. Artists of all levels are welcome to submit.
Participants in the National Arts Festival may try out regionally for several Art Categories; however, they may only compete in a single Art Category at the National Arts Festival. Participants may be allowed to participate in a maximum of one solo submission and one teams submission per subcategory.
Artists are encouraged to be creative with the use of the prompt ("Express what you CARE about through art") The intention is not that all submissions must be religious but should relate to the creative prompt. The prompt can be interpreted by the artists freely. As part of the application process, each artist or group will be asked to describe how their submission connects to the creative prompt.
Categories
- Iranian folk, especially using the Tahrir (yodelling) style of singing
- Tajik folk
- Arab classical (songs that derive from the maqam system)
- South Asian experimental compositions, such as songs from Coke Studio or popular, such as songs from Bollywood
- Western classical, such as solo opera arias, show tunes, and choral acts
- Indian classical: kathak, Bharatanatyam, Odissi, and others
- Western traditions: ballet, modern/contemporary, hip-hop, jazz, acrobatic, tap
- Afghan/Tajik/Syrian folk (usually in accompaniment with live musicians)
- South Asian folk: ex. Ghoomar (Rajasthani folk), bhangra
- South Asian popular e.g. Bollywood
- Other “world” dance traditions
- Afghan, Tajik, Syrian rubab and regional variants
- Setar, sitar, tabla, def, qanun, among others
- Violin (across idioms, such as Karnatak, Western classical, American folk-fiddle)
- Piano (classical, jazz)
- Other Western instruments
- Dramatic monologues
- Literature readings
- Acting/rendering of scenes from plays and/or films
- Comedy
- Spoken word performance and poetry
- Other imaginative creations
- Martial arts, such as jujutsu, kalaripayattu, karate
- Puppetry and ventriloquism
- Magic
- Visual Artists creating pieces on stage, perhaps in collaboration with a dancer
Submission Guidelines
Specific guidelines related to the Performing Arts Categories are as follows:
Category: Vocal Music
- Length: All performances are limited to three (3) minutes.
- Group Size: Soloists or groups composed of up to 20 performers can perform in one submission.
- Backing Tracks: Backing tracks may be used, but they should be free of vocal lines/textures
- Accompaniments: Live instrumental or visual accompaniments are allowed, but only the vocal performance will be judged for this category. If you would like instrumentalists and vocalists to be adjudicated together, please submit them to the Creative Arts category.
Category: Instrumental Music
- Length: All performances are limited to three (3) minutes.
- Group Size: Soloists and groups composed of up to 20 performers can perform in one submission.
- Music Tracks: Music must be played live, without backing tracks
- Accompaniments: Visual accompaniments are allowed, but only instrumental musical performances will be judged in the Instrumental Music category. If instrumentalists and other artists are intended to be assessed together, please submit to the Creative Arts category.
Category: Dance
- Length: All performances are limited to three (3) minutes.
- Group Size: Soloists or groups composed of up to 20 performers can perform in one submission.
- Music Tracks: Pre-recorded music tracks shall be submitted along with the submission to allow adequate time to review and screen content. Music tracks shall accompany a lighting cue list in Excel format to denote the exact points when the lighting changes should happen.
- Accompaniments: Live instrumental or visual accompaniments are allowed however, only dance, choreography, and movement will be judged in the Dance category. If instrumentalists and other artists need to be assessed together, performers may enter their submission into the Creative Arts category instead.
- Props: The use of props and sets is allowed. Additional time of up to two (2) minutes is allotted for setup and tear-down.
Category: Creative Arts
- Length: All performances are limited to three (3) minutes.
- Group Size: Soloists and groups composed of up to 20 performers can perform in one submission.
- Music Tracks: If required, pre-recorded music tracks must be provided along with the submission to give the organising committee adequate time to review and screen the music.
- Props: Use of props and sets is allowed, so long as setup and tear-down are feasible within two minutes (this time is in addition to the allotted performance time)
Supporting Submission Material
Along with the artwork, artists shall provide narratives about their history as artists and insight into the artwork development process for the Art Gallery in the artist’s local language and English. This can allow judges and spectators to engage with and understand artists indirectly. The information below outlines the content and description of the supporting content needed.
Biodata
- Your biography including name, birthdate, region and country, artistic background, and experience including relevant education, training and previous credits.
- Submit a narrative of up to 250 words
- For a group performance, each artist shall submit the above.
Title of Submission
- Title of Submission
Submission Summary
- Provide a summary describing the concept of the submission, how the work incorporates the thematic creative prompts and rationale for chosen mediums. This summary will be reviewed by judges as part of the evaluation process
Art in the Making
Provide a one minute video narrative or series of photographs in which you:
- Tell your story or professional history
- Demonstrate the progression of your submission from it's concept to draft and subsequently to its final form.
Technical Requirements for the Performance
- Technical rider for the performance outlining supports needed, e.g. number of mics and type of mics, audio requirements such as a microphone or lead to a PA, monitors, projection screens, and other support.
- Example of a technical rider: "I am a Kathak dancer performing with a tabla player. My tabla player requires two area mics on stands pointed to the floor to amplify his set of drums. I require a mic on a stand. We also require a background track that plays for the duration of our performance. We require one monitor (wedge, on stage), and the mix should include the tabla and background track as the loudest, with my standing mic as second in priority.
Performance Credits
- Names of supporting artists such as choreographers and musicians
- Any other collaborators
- Special thanks (e.g. to government entities)
General
The Film Festival features four (4) categories for both “youth” and “open” categories. There is no minimum age requirement for participating in the National Arts Festival. The festival offers both a “youth” and an “open” category. Participants under 18 as of 31 May 2024 may submit under the ‘youth’ category. Participants aged 18 and over will fall under the ‘open’ category. Artists of all levels are welcome to submit.
Participants in the National Arts Festival may try out regionally for several Art Categories; however, they may only compete in a single Art Category at the National Arts Festival. Participants may be allowed to participate in a maximum of one solo submission and one teams submission per subcategory.
Artists are encouraged to be creative with the use of the prompt (Express what you CARE about through art!) The intention is not that all submissions must be religious but should relate to the creative prompt. The prompt can be interpreted by the artists freely. As part of the application process, each artist or group will be asked to describe how their submission connects to the creative prompt.
Categories
The following is a description of categories available for this stream.
Reels
Length: Up to 90 seconds
Very short films similar to Instagram/TikTok. They can be used as bumpers in between films within a programme. Can also be used for marketing and be showcased as a compilation
Shorts (Under 5 minutes)
Length: 90 seconds to 5 minutes
Short film submissions that run between 90 seconds and 5 minutes in length.
Shorts (Under 20 minutes)
Length: 5 to 20 minutes
Short film submissions that run between 5 and 20 minutes in length.
Immersive
Length: Up to 3 minutes
Storytelling in AR and VR. They can have an interactive component, however, they must have a substantial story element. We will showcase recordings of the experience as a supplement—the artist must provide a way for the audience to experience the immersive experience on their own devices.
Submissions Guidelines
Duration
Each film is categorized by its duration (running time) starting with 0 seconds to up to 20 minutes. Times are calculated starting from the first frame (audio or visual) up to the last frame (end of the film). Total film duration includes the duration of credits.
Language
For accessibility to all audience members, closed captioning / subtitles must be burned into the film in English. Closed captions may also be provided in the original language in addition to English. For films with no dialogue, closed captions are also required to describe significant audio cues.
Stock FootageStock footage is permitted when it is justified. Stock footage should adequately portray the film and its narrative and help convey the creative ideas of the filmmaker. Filmmakers shall demonstrate that they hold properly acquired licenses for each stock footage in their film.
File FormatRequired film file formats, specifications, and media are listed below:
- Video: MP4, MOV, QuickTime, DCP (Unencrypted only)
- Audio: .MP3, .AAC, .WAV, .PCM
- Highest Quality movie file possible (e.g. Apple ProRes LT 82-102 Mbps, PCM 48 kHz 24-bit audio, .mov wrapper)
- If a film advances to the International Programme, filmmakers may be additionally asked to submit their film at a higher quality if the original submission has too much compression for theatrical projection or online exhibition.
Digital Specifications
- Frame Rate: progressive only: 23.98fps, 24fps, 25fps, 29.97fps, 30fps.
- Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080), 2K (2048×1080), or 4K (3840×2160)
- Color Space / gamma: Rec 709 / 2.2
- Aspect Ratio: 1:2.35 (Cinemascope), 16:9 (Widescreen), or 4:3 (Square)
Immersive Experiences: Augmented Reality / Virtual Reality Format
AR/VR/MR/XR may be created for a variety of platforms and exhibition formats.
- Submissions of this category will be in the form of an artist edited screen recording video of the experience (maximum 3 minutes in length).
- The video will be included in the IFF programme and must also be provided as a freely available locked, non-changing direct online link to the experience (no exceptions) so that judges and audience members may view it on their devices.
- Experiences designed for mobile devices must natively function on device or via a freely available/accessible platform or app from a public mobile app store for the currently supported (at time of submission) Android and iOS operating systems. Both Android and iOS must be supported by the experience, no exceptions).
- For all experiences, whether requiring a computer, headset or mobile device, the minimum hardware and software specifications must be provided as part of the submission
Screen recording video guidelines
- Must be edited, with titles, credits
- Immediately after titles, the video must include 1-2 screens of introduction (in English) describing what is about to be depicted in the video.
- Closed captioning / Subtitles must be burned into the video images for any dialogue. Closed captions may also be provided in the original language in addition to English. For videos with no dialogue, closed captions are also required to describe significant audio cues
Screen recording digital file specifications
- Video: MP4, MOV, QuickTime
- Audio: .MP3, .AAC, .WAV, .PCM
- Audio Channels: 2-channel Stereo or 5.1 Surround Sound
- Color Space / gamma: Rec 709 / 2.2
- Highest Quality movie file possible that matches the experience
- Frame Rate: progressive only: accepted options include: 23.98fps, 24fps, 25fps, 29.97fps, 30fps
- Resolution: Native Resolution of Experience. May be conformed to HD (1920×1080)
- Aspect Ratio: Native Aspect of Experience. May be conformed to 16:9 (Widescreen)
Qualification Link Guidelines
Experiences must be provided as a freely available locked, non-changing direct online link. This link must be static and available for a minimum of 2 years after the completion of the GE Festival.
Supporting Submission Material
Along with the artwork, artists shall provide narratives about their history as artists and insight into the artwork development process for the Art Gallery in the artist’s local language and English. This can allow judges and spectators to engage with and understand artists indirectly. The information below outlines the content and description of the supporting content needed.
Biodata
- Your biography including name, birthdate, region and country, artistic background, and experience including relevant education, training and previous credits.
- Submit a narrative of up to 250 words
Title of Submission
- Title of Submission
Submission Background
- Provide the primary language of the submission, production details including date made, equipment used, budget, locations, sponsorships.
- Provide original sources (e.g. when the story or music is based on a different piece.
Submission Summary
- Provide a summary describing the concept of the submission, how the work incorporates the thematic creative prompts and rationale for chosen mediums. This summary will be reviewed by judges as part of the evaluation process.
Art in the Making
Provide a one minute video narrative or series of photographs in which you:
- Tell your story or professional history
- Demonstrate the progression of your submission from it's concept to draft and subsequently to its final form.
Credits
- Provide names of above the line crew members such as actor(s), producer(s), director(s), cinematographer(s), editor(s) composer(s), sound artists, production designer(s), art directors, technical artists etc.
- Provide any other collaborators.
- Special thanks (e.g. to government entities)
Funding Sources
- Provide details about external sources of funding or sponsors of the submission
Submission Artwork
- Provide an image file to use in a movie poster or icon for the submission.
- The image format shall be RGB Color JPEG (jpg or jpeg) or TIFF (tif or tiff) at an ideal resoluton of 3600x7200 (minimum of 1600x1200) pixels.
- Up to 3 stills representing scenes in the native format from the submission (e.g. HD 1920x1080)
General
Along with the artwork, artists shall provide narratives about their history as artists and insight into the artwork development process for the Art Gallery in the artist’s local language and English. This can allow judges and spectators to engage with and understand artists indirectly. The information below outlines the content and description of the supporting content needed.
Biodata
- Your biography including name, birthdate, region and country, artistic background, and experience including relevant education, training and previous credits.
- Submit a narrative of up to 250 words
Title of Submission
- Title of Submission
Submission Background
- Provide the primary language of the submission, production details including date made, equipment used, budget, locations, sponsorships.
- Provide original sources (e.g. when the story or music is based on a different piece.
Submission Summary
- Provide a summary describing the concept of the submission, how the work incorporates the thematic creative prompts and rationale for chosen mediums. This summary will be reviewed by judges as part of the evaluation process.
Art in the Making
Provide a one minute video narrative or series of photographs in which you:
- Tell your story or professional history
- Demonstrate the progression of your submission from it's concept to draft and subsequently to its final form.
Credits
- Provide names of above the line crew members such as actor(s), producer(s), director(s), cinematographer(s), editor(s) composer(s), sound artists, production designer(s), art directors, technical artists etc.
- Provide any other collaborators.
- Special thanks (e.g. to government entities)
Funding Sources
- Provide details about external sources of funding or sponsors of the submission
Submission Artwork
- Provide an image file to use in a movie poster or icon for the submission.
- The image format shall be RGB Color JPEG (jpg or jpeg) or TIFF (tif or tiff) at an ideal resoluton of 3600x7200 (minimum of 1600x1200) pixels.
- Up to 3 stills representing scenes in the native format from the submission (e.g. HD 1920x1080)
Categories
Following is a description of categories available for this stream. Additional information such as size and weight restrictions will be provided soon.
Canvas Mediums
Canvas Media is artwork that is hand-painted or hand-drawn on canvas cloth. Canvas media is often mounted on a wood frame and hung on walls. The methods or tools used to paint on canvas may vary, though traditionally these artworks are painted or drawn by an instrument such as a paintbrush or the artist’s fingers.
Examples include:
- Qajar oil painting of the Battle of Karbala by Abbas Al-Musavi
- Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci
Paper
Paper Media includes hand-painted or hand-drawn artwork on fine art quality paper. Submissions in this category may have been created with pencils, ink, or any other tool used to hand-paint or hand-draw the artwork. Paper Media pieces are also often framed and hung on a wall.
Examples include:
- Pencil sketch portraiture
- Persian miniatures, small paintings on paper (either individual or collected in a muraqqa)
Graphic Design / Digital
Graphic Design/Digital Media is artwork that is viewed digitally, for example through digital display. Graphic Design/Digital Media artists typically create their original artwork on a computer.
Examples include:
- Affixing digital screens on walls that depict videos
AI Art
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Art is any artwork created through the use of AI art generators such as text-to-image models, DALL-E 2, etc.
Examples include:
- Affixing digital screens on walls that depict digital art generated by AI
3-Dimensional / Sculpture
Abstract forms created by methods of subtraction (material is removed, e.g., carving) or addition (material is added, e.g., welding), or by shaping into a new form (e.g., moulding). The measured artwork can be viewed by length, width, and height.
Examples include:
- Bronze, gemstones, glass, granite, marble, clay, plaster, stone, wax, wood, cement, aluminum, plastic, synthetic resin, metal, recycled materials, or ceramics.
Mixed Mediums
Mixed/Assembled Media is artwork that combines the above types of art media to create one piece of art.
Examples include:
- Attaching beads and/or other found objects to canvas cloth
Print Media is artwork that is printed, for example through screen printing or digital printing. Screen printing is one of the most traditional printing methods, while digital printing is the most common. Print Media artists typically create their original artwork on a computer and print it using one of these methods.
Examples include:
- Silkscreen print works of Andy Warhol
- Islamic calligraphy lithography prints
Photography
Photography Media includes photos of people, places, objects, or spaces captured using a digital or film camera. Photographers generally reproduce their photographs in print and this type of artwork is also often framed and hung on a wall.
Examples include:
- Works of Ansel Adams and Annie Leibovitz
Installations
Installations include custom artwork that is created to transform a space and allows the audience to interact with the piece using more than one of their senses, usually touch, sound, and sight. An installation piece will generally serve to transform the space into something the audience can fully immerse themselves in.
Examples include:
- Suspending flashing lights from the ceiling
- Filling a room with thousands of balloons
Fashion / Textile
Fashion/Textile spans a wide range of fiber art-based practices such as quilting, thread painting, lace-working, beading, and weaving. Fashion/textile artists typically use loom, warp, and weft which may be stretched to cover such divergent applications as computer-generated Jacquard, tapestry, and even sculpture.
Examples include:
- Tapestry work of Iraqi artist Dia Azzawi
- Indigenous artwork such as a handwoven rug or the aboriginal technique of weaving and string art
Submission Guidelines
Category: Canvas Media
Dimensions
Maximum size including canvas, border, and frame: 48 in x 60 in x 6 in (121.92 cm x 152.4 cm x 15.24 cm)
Weight
Maximum weight, including frame: 40 lbs (18.1437 kg)
Series
An artist may submit multiple pieces of art as part of a larger compilation of the same media (canvas). The total combined dimensions and weight shall not exceed the maximums specified above.
Materials
Traditional liquid mediums hand painted or drawn on a canvas. Examples of traditional liquid mediums include, but are not limited to: acrylic paint, resin, blacklight paint, encaustic paint, fresco, gesso, glaze, gouache, ink, latex paint, Magna paint, oil paint, primer, Sumi-e (ink wash painting), tempera or poster paint, watercolour, pouring mediums, or string gel.
Display
Canvas mounted on a wood frame. If the artist wishes to frame the submission, the artist shall provide the frame. The dimensions and weight of framed pieces must meet the guidelines specified above. All submissions shall be wired in the back to allow for hanging.
Category: Paper Media
Dimensions
Maximum size including paper, border, and frame: 48 in x 60 in x 6 in (121.92 cm x 152.4 cm x 15.24 cm)
Weight
Maximum weight including frame: 40 lbs (18.1437 kg)
Series
An artist may submit multiple pieces of art as part of a larger compilation of the same media (paper). The total combined dimensions and weight shall not exceed the maximums above.
Materials
Traditional mediums are hand painted or drawn on paper. Examples of traditional hand-painted mediums include, but are not limited to: acrylic paint, chalk, charcoal, coloured pencil, conté, crayon, gouache, graphite, finger paint (with ink or paint), marker, oil paint, oil pastel, pen and ink, pencil, tempera, or watercolour.
Display
Paper mounted and framed with a glass cover. The artist shall provide the frame. The dimensions and weight of framed pieces shall meet the guidelines above. All submissions shall have a wire secured to the back to allow for hanging.
Category: Print Media
Dimensions
Maximum size including border and frame: 48 in x 60 in x 6 in (121.92 cm x 152.4 cm x 15.24 cm)
Weight
Maximum weight including frame: 40 lbs (18.1437 kg)
Series
An artist may submit multiple pieces of art as part of a larger compilation of the same media *print). The total combined dimensions and weight shall not exceed the maximums above.
Materials
Using the process of printing to create graphic design or print media, such as digital illustration, digital painting, digital composition/manipulation, 3D renderings, or graphic design. Examples of processes include, but are not limited to letterpress, offset lithography, screen printing, or digital printing.
Display
Paper mounted and framed with a glass cover. The artist shall provide the frame. The dimensions and weight of framed pieces must meet the guidelines specified above. All submissions shall be wired in the back to allow for hanging.
Category: Photography
Dimensions
Maximum size including border and frame: 48 in x 60 in x 6 in (121.92 cm x 152.4 cm x 15.24 cm)
Weight
Maximum weight including frame: 40 lbs (18.1437 kg)
Series
An artist may submit multiple pieces of art as part of a larger compilation of the same media (photography). The total combined dimensions and weight shall not exceed the maximums above.
Materials
Producing images using a film or digital camera. Examples of photography styles include, but are not limited to lifestyle, surreal, conceptual, candid, abstract, street, environmental/landscape, architectural, documentary, photojournalism, portraiture, or wildlife.
Display
Paper mounted and framed with a glass cover. The artist shall provide the frame. Dimensions and weight of framed pieces must meet the guidelines specified above. All artwork shall be wired in the back to allow for hanging.
Category: Graphic Design and Digital
Dimensions
Maximum size including border and frame: 48 in x 60 in x 6 in (121.92 cm x 152.4 cm x 15.24 cm)
Weight
Maximum weight including frame: 40 lbs (18.1437 kg)
Series
An artist may submit multiple pieces of art as part of a larger compilation of the same media (graphic design or digital print). The total combined dimensions and weight shall not exceed the maximums above.
Materials
Using the process of printing to create graphic design or print media, such as digital illustration, digital painting, digital composition/manipulation, 3D renderings, or graphic design. Examples of processes include, but are not limited to letterpress, offset lithography, screen printing, or digital printing.
Display
Paper mounted and framed with a glass cover. The artist shall provide the frame. The dimensions and weight of framed pieces must meet the guidelines specified above. All submissions shall be wired in the back to allow for hanging.
Category: Artificial Intelligence (AI) Art
Dimensions
Maximum size including border and frame: 48 in x 60 in x 6 in (121.92 cm x 152.4 cm x 15.24 cm)
Weight
Maximum weight including frame: 40 lbs (18.1437 kg)
Series
An artist may submit multiple pieces of art as part of a larger compilation of the same media (graphic design or digital print). The total combined dimensions and weight shall not exceed the maximums above.
Materials
Using methods where an artist submits text, images, videos or other cues (known as “prompts”) into an AI-powered platform to generate a digital illustration, digital painting, digital composition/manipulation, 3D renderings, or graphic design. Examples include entering prompts using programs such as deepAI, DALL-E, and more.
Display
Examples of display options include high resolution holographic projections, projection screens or walls, special programmable intelligent lighting, digital display or touch display. Power sources may be required for essential lighting effects or moving mechanisms.
Technical Requirements
Artists shall provide any additional technical requirements necessary for the work to function (e.g. power adapter in order to display work in different countries).
Category: 3-Dimensional and Sculpture
Dimensions
Maximum size including supports for standing or hanging if required: 7 ft x 5 ft x 2.5 ft (2.134 m x 1.524 m x 0.762 m)
Weight
Maximum weight including supports for standing or hanging if required: 300 lbs (136.078 kg)
Series
An artist may submit multiple pieces of art as part of a larger compilation of the same media (3-dimensional or sculpture). The total combined dimensions and weight shall not exceed the maximums above.
Materials
Three-dimensional representations or abstract forms created by methods of subtraction (material is removed, e.g., carving) or addition (material is added, e.g., welding), or by shaping into a new form (e.g., molding). Examples of media include, but are not limited to: bronze, gemstones, glass, granite, marble, clay, plaster, stone, wax, wood, cement, aluminium, plastic, synthetic resin, metal, or ceramics.
Display
Submissions should be either free-standing, mounted on a supporting base, or include sufficient supports to hang on walls.
Assembly should not be required for submissions in this category (see Art and Digital Installations on page 19 for an alternate submission category).
Basic risers and bases for display purposes will be provided. If the submission requires a particular size or type of support or base, the artist is responsible for providing that support or base.
Category: Mixed Mediums
Dimensions
Maximum size including border and frame: 48 in x 60 in x 6 in (121.92 cm x 152.4 cm x 15.24 cm)
Weight
Maximum weight including frame or panel: 50lbs (22.67962 kg)
Series
An artist may submit multiple pieces of art as part of a larger compilation. In the mixed media category, pieces of the artwork can comprise a combination of media from the above categories of art. The total combined dimensions and weight shall not exceed the maximums above.
Materials
Any combination of the media applicable to the above categories. In addition to the examples listed above, additional media may include: textiles, found objects, or indigenous natural materials.
Display
Submissions should be mounted or framed, with or without a glass cover. If the artist wishes to frame the submission, the artist shall provide the frame. Dimensions and weight of framed pieces shall meet the guidelines specified above. All submissions shall have a wire secured to the back to allow for hanging.
Category: Installations
Dimensions
Maximum size: 10 ft x 10 ft x 10 ft (3 m x 3 m x 3 m)
Weight
Maximum weight, including all components: 500 lbs (226.76 kg)
Series
Artwork in this category cannot be submitted as a series of pieces.
Materials
Submissions may consist of interactive or immersive experiences that are site-specific and designed to transform a blank space. Submissions may require technology or a power source. Examples of submissions include but are not limited to high-resolution holographic projections, projection screens or walls, special programmable intelligent lighting, digital display or touch display, interactive experiences, virtual immersive reality experiences, digital art and motion, digital animations, fractals, algorithmic art, or audio and video captures.
Display
Examples of display options include high resolution holographic projections, projection screens or walls, special programmable intelligent lighting, digital display or touch display. Power sources may be required for essential lighting effects or moving mechanisms.
Technical Requirements
Artists shall provide any additional technical requirements necessary for the work to function (e.g. power adapter in order to display work in different countries).
Category: Fashion and Textile
Dimensions
Maximum size including 48 in x 60 in x 6 in (121.92 cm x 152.4 cm x 15.24 cm)
Weight
Maximum weight including frame or panel: 50lbs (22.68 kg)
Series
An artist may submit multiple pieces of art or artifacts as part of a larger compilation. In fashion & textiles, each piece can be any combination of the above listed media. The total combined dimensions and weight shall not exceed the maximums above.
Materials
Any combination of non-hazardous and wearable fabrics such as cotton, silk, leather, wool, metals, or plastics and including additional design elements such as beads, sequins, zippers, electronic components, etc. This can include conceptual sketches in crayon, ink, or pencil on paper or printed mediums.
Display
Mounted or framed, with or without a glass cover, or mounted on a mannequin provided by the artist. If the artist wishes to frame the submission, the artist shall provide the frame. Dimensions and weight of framed pieces must meet the guidelines specified above. All framed submissions shall be wired in the back to allow for hanging.
Supporting Submission Material
Along with the artwork, artists shall provide narratives about their history as artists and insight into the artwork development process for the Art Gallery in the artist’s local language and English. This can allow judges and spectators to engage with and understand artists indirectly. The information below outlines the content and description of the supporting content needed.
Biodata
- Your biography including name, birthdate, region and country, artistic background, and experience including relevant education, training and previous credits.
- Submit a narrative of up to 250 words
Title of Submission
- Title of Submission
Submission Summary
- Provide a summary describing the concept of the submission, how the work incorporates the thematic creative prompts and rationale for chosen mediums. This summary will be reviewed by judges as part of the evaluation process
Art in the Making
Provide a one minute video narrative or series of photographs in which you:
- Tell your story or professional history
- Demonstrate the progression of your submission from it's concept to draft and subsequently to its final form.
Images
- Four to six images of the final work (from different angles where applicable). The images shall be in RGB Colour JPEG (jpg or jpeg) or TIFF (tif or tiff) format at an ideal resolution of 3600 X 2700 pixels (minimum 1600 X 1200 pixels)
- These images will be reviewed for content prior to the programme
- Additional guidance: Show only the art; do not include frame or surrounding environment (where applicable). Avoid glare when photographing artwork. Do not watermark your image.
Technical Requirements
- Provide electrical use, power source, amperage requirements, suspension needs, other required resources