Open for Applications: Jun 20-Jul 21, 2026 or 70 applicants maximum (whichever comes first)
Applicants: BC‑based visual artists (emerging, student, hobbyist, or self‑taught)
Mediums: All visual mediums, including photography, mixed-media, ceramics, and sculpture
Commission Spots: 2–5 artists
Artwork Size: Any size
Application Fee: $10 (100% of fees collected support future commission opportunities.)
Before applying: Have 3 examples of past work ready to share (scroll down for full details)
Application effort: applications take approximately 10-20 min (short or bullet point responses suffice)
Call Theme: What Brings You Back
This call invites artists to explore what helps them feel present or connected — the things that bring them back to themselves if the world feels distant.
Your work might focus on a person, sound, memory, object, or environment. It could also be something created with others in in mind: an image that feels familiar, a scene that offers a sense of steadiness, or a cue that reminds someone of connection.
Artists are encouraged to interpret ‘What Brings You Back’ in their own way.
Commission Amount: $500 (standard); option to request $600-$800 for more 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: 2–5
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, must be wired if it is intended to hand, frame not required)
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 (~10-20 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 picks 2) Picks are discussed then ranked until all the commission spots are filled 3) 2-5 artists are selected for commissions
Post-Selection
Final artwork is showcased on 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.