Commission Amount: $500 (standard); $1,000 for large/complex works
When can I apply: Calls for commissions open periodically throughout the year. Current opportunities and deadlines are always posted on this page.
Selection Notification: Within 3 weeks of deadline
Selected Artists per Round: 2–4
Application Fee: $10 (non-refundable). 100% of fees collected support future commission opportunities.
Commission Payment: If selected, full payment on delivery (or 25% advance after selection, if requested, to aid in materials costs.)
Eligibility & Applying
Eligibility To apply, you must:
Reside full-time in BC
Be 18+ and an art student, passionate hobbyist, or emerging artist (earning less than $80k/year of artist income - does not include other full time or part time job).
Apply as an individual (not as a group or collective)
Propose a non-digital, original artwork
Commit to completing the work in 2 months (display-ready)
Be able to deliver it to Piccolo's drop-off site (Vancouver or Langley)
If selected, submit: headshot, bio, and artist statement (100–500 words)
How to Apply
Visit the “Get Commissioned” page and complete the form (~15 min)
Upload 3 samples of past work (.JPG .PDF .PNG)
Briefly describe your proposed piece (medium, size, concept/style)
Pay the $10 application fee
Accepted Mediums:
Painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, textile art, photography, mixed media, collage, glasswork, and assemblage. Other mediums? Contact us to ask.
NOT Accepted Mediums:
Digital illustration, Photoshop composites, 3D/digital sculpture, NFTs, AI-generated artwork. To note: AI can be used for planning/sketching, but final art must be made with traditional methods.
Review & Selection
Application Review Process
Applications are reviewed by three Art Supporters — the Piccolo Founder and two guest contributors who share our belief that art is for everyone and bring diverse perspectives and skills.
Selections are made on sample quality, creative potential, and fit with Piccolo’s portfolio
Review Process: 1) Reviewers select their top 5 proposals 2) Picks are discussed then individually ranked for an overall score 3) 2-4 artists are selected for commissions
Post-Selection
Final artwork is showcased in The Piccolo Virtual Gallery
Retained until auction; auction sales fund future commissions
Unsold pieces may be gifted to donors or sold to support Piccolo
Artists retain full copyright unless otherwise arranged
Not Selected?
You’re welcome to apply again for future open calls.