• WHAT IS EMERGE?

    The EMERGE exhibition is a juried + invitational exhibition with a focus on young, emerging artists either currently in school, recently graduated, or showcasing strong commitment to their artistic practice, if not pursuing traditional schooling.


    This group exhibition will be the only open call we hold each year and is focused on a broad range of artistic practices. 


    All accepted artists will have their artwork featured at Bond Millen Gallery, a contemporary art gallery in the West End district of Richmond, Virginia.



    WHAT DOES "JURIED + INVITATIONAL" MEAN?
    Many works included in EMERGE will be selected from open call submissions, while a small number of artists will be invited to exhibit if the gallery connects with their practice. We look for emerging artists and students who will bring something distinct to the exhibition, while also considering our collector-base and how artists might fit into our roster post-EMERGE. 


    WHO JURIES THE SHOW?
    The works are juried by the small staff at Bond Millen Gallery: Rachel Crawford & Ashley Millen. We usually allow current interns & gallery associates to sit in on the process as well!


    WHO CAN SUBMIT TO EMERGE?
    We encourage young artists who are strongly committed to their artistic practice, BFA undergrads, MFA candidates, and recent MFA graduates (1-5 years) to submit!


    IS THERE A SUBMISSION FEE?
    We know fees can enforce unnecessary barriers to entry in the submission process, and we hope to encourage as many to apply as possible. 

    WHAT KIND OF WORK SHOULD I SUBMIT?
    Refraining from setting a theme during our EMERGE open-call encourages artist submissions from a wide range of perspectives and applications of the fine arts. We aim to cast a wide net, allowing themes to emerge organically from the submissions themselves, when possible. 
     
    We welcome young artists practicing in different media such as painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture, craft, etc to apply. 

    Looking for inspiration? Take a look at past years’ EMERGE exhibitions through the page linked above.


    HOW DO I SUBMIT?
    Please submit through the google form linked on the submission page.


    WHEN IS THE SUBMISSION DEADLINE?
    Submissions for EMERGE will close April 23, 2026 at 11:59PM EST.


    IF ACCEPTED, HOW DOES SHIPPING WORK?
    Because we do not charge for the submission process, we ask that you cover the cost of shipment or transport to the gallery. If your work is sold, we will reimburse the cost of the return shipping. We ask that all participating artists include a prepaid return shipping label with their shipped piece(s) -- if accepted, please reach out if this might be a financial hardship preventing you from participating, as we can offer assistance if needed.


    WHERE DO I SHIP MY WORK?
    All work should be shipped or locally delivered to:
    Bond Millen Gallery 
    5601 Cary Street Rd, 
    Richmond, VA 23226


    WHEN DO I NEED TO HAVE MY WORK DELIVERED TO THE GALLERY?
    All participating artists must have their presentation-ready work delivered to Bond Millen Gallery by Friday, June 5th 2026.


    WHAT DOES "PRESENTATION-READY" MEAN?
    We expect all participating artists to ship their work in the condition it will be shown. If the work needs to be mounted, framed, or hung, all framing should be complete upon arrival. We can attach hanging hardware like wires or D-rings to canvases/frames during the installation process, if needed. All work should be signed (front or back, up to your preference), or include a signed certificate of authenticity.

    Looking for clarification on preparing your work? Accepted artists will receive support materials, and are welcome to reach out with any questions. 


    HOW MUCH DOES THE SHOW COST FOR VISITORS?
    The gallery is always free to visit during normal hours, Tues-Sat, 10am to 4pm. 


    IF I SELL A PIECE, HOW IS THAT SPLIT WITH THE GALLERY?
    All work is split 50/50 between the gallery and the artist, directly funding young artists’ practice while supporting the gallery’s continued operations.

    IMPORTANT DATES
    March 9, 2026: Submissions Open
    April 23, 2026: Submissions close-11:59EST deadline
    May 1, 2026: Accepted Applicants Notified
    June 5, 2026: Participating Artist Delivery Deadline (5601 Cary Street Rd)
    June 11, 2026: EMERGE X Exhibition Opens-Reception 5-7pm
    DATE TBD: Young Collectors Night
    July 25th, 2026: EMERGE x Exhibition Closes 
    July-August, 2026: Work Returned to Participating Artists, or Kept on Consignment if discussed