2026 Open Call | Greater Los Angeles

Located just outside Los Angeles in the scenic and affluent coastal region of Ventura, California, Dama Gallery, LLC has been a cornerstone of contemporary art since 2011. Ventura remains the gallery’s original location and creative hub, with the 2026 exhibition program featuring both solo and group shows. Emerging, mid-career, and established artists are invited to connect with collectors and grow within our expanding network. We are actively seeking artists whose work demonstrates originality, innovation, and a fresh approach to contemporary practice, and we welcome submissions across all genres and mediums.

LOCATION . Situated in the heart of Ventura, California, Dama Gallery, LLC has, since 2011, emerged as a cornerstone of contemporary art and curatorial excellence. Originally rooted in Ventura, our gallery has expanded its influence to Los Angeles (2019), Mexico City (2020), and Austin (2021), building a legacy of presenting innovative exhibitions and cultivating an international network of artists and collectors. Our Ventura location serves as both a creative hub and a destination for collectors, offering a platform for mid-career, established, and emerging artists to engage with a discerning audience in a vibrant coastal setting.

CONSIDERATION . Submissions for the 2026 exhibition program are now open, and early consideration is strongly encouraged. Entries are reviewed weekly, and selections are made throughout the month. Each submission is evaluated independently by location and curator to ensure that every exhibition reflects the unique character of the gallery space and contributes to a coherent curatorial vision. This approach allows us to foster a dynamic dialogue between artists, collectors, and the contemporary art community.

EXHIBITIONS . The 2026 program in Ventura will feature both solo and group exhibitions, with durations ranging from one to three months. The number of works exhibited is determined by the artist’s medium, scale, and overall curatorial fit. Selected artists are invited to attend openings and may be considered for artist talks, panel discussions, or recorded interviews. Artists whose work is chosen may also be considered for ongoing representation; which includes portfolio consultation, marketing and promotional support, online exhibition presence, and priority consideration for future exhibitions. Representation decisions are made continuously throughout the year.

CALL FEE . A submission fee of $35 for the first 3 images applies. Additional images may be added at $5 per image, up to a maximum of 20. Fees are allocated to cover the curator’s time, portfolio reviews, submission consultations, exhibition publications, artist stipends, juror honorariums, gallery interns, and other essential aspects of planning, marketing, and executing a large-scale, professionally curated exhibition program. This ensures that both artist and curator efforts are fairly recognized and supported.

COMMISSION & REMITTANCE . Dama Gallery adheres to standard industry practice with a 50% commission on sales. Artworks are listed across online platforms, including Artsy, to maximize exposure and market visibility. Sales remittance is issued within 5-7 business days following exhibition close or upon final buyer payment, accompanied by a detailed statement.

NOTIFICATIONS . Entries submitted by 6/7/26 will be considered for the 2026 Ventura program. Artists will receive notifications via the CaFE platform or direct email, with final decisions made at the curator’s discretion. Early submissions receive priority review, we review submissions on a weekly basis.

OPTIONAL CURATOR CONSULTATION . Dama Gallery offers an optional, paid curator consultation for artists seeking personalized guidance from the Gallery Director. Designed to support your professional development, each session runs 60–75 minutes via video chat and provides a full review of your submitted portfolio, website, social media presence, and CV. Artists may submit specific questions to the Gallery Director ahead of time regarding sales, online visibility, social media strategy, or any aspect of their practice they would like insight on.

These consultations are entirely optional and have no bearing on submission consideration or exhibition invitations. Paying for a consultation is simply a professional service offered to artists and does not guarantee exhibition or acceptance. You may schedule a consultation immediately upon purchase, regardless of your submission status. To schedule, please email Jim at j.kent@damagallery.com, and he will confirm your consultation purchase and coordinate a convenient time for your session.

This is an exclusive opportunity to receive direct feedback from the Gallery Director, gaining professional insight and practical guidance to enhance your portfolio, presentation, and strategies for connecting with collectors and the broader art community.

CONTACT . For questions regarding your submission, status, or additional entries, please email ventura@damagallery.com. Include your CaFE account name and submission date in all correspondence.

VISIT  www.damagallery.com | IG @damagalleries

ABOUT DAMA GALLERY . Dama Gallery is a contemporary art institution dedicated to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. We proudly maintain one of the few established gallery programs that extend exhibition opportunities to non-represented artists, offering a platform for both emerging and established voices. Through exhibitions, artist talks, panel discussions, residencies, and publications, Dama Gallery fosters discovery, innovation, and dialogue within the contemporary art landscape.

We embrace an inclusive ethos, acknowledging that exceptional artistic expression transcends boundaries. By carefully curating exhibitions that highlight diversity of media, style, and perspective, Dama Gallery cultivates a rich, ongoing dialogue between artists, curators, collectors, and the public. Our commitment ensures that every artist’s voice can resonate authentically within their chosen space, contributing to the ever-evolving narrative of contemporary art.

ART REQUIREMENTS - All artwork must be original and unsold. The artist must own the sole copyright to art. Frames, mats & wiring must be professional quality & in good condition. No saw- tooth hangers. Wiring must be securely fashioned & support weight of the artwork. 2D Artwork selected for exhibition MUST BE READY TO HANG.  

SHIPPING (EXHIBITION) - Absolutely no packing peanuts. Crates, boxes, even small packages containing packing peanuts will be resealed and immediately shipped back to you, no exceptions. Artists are responsible for round-trip shipping & insurance (during shipping) of artworks for purposes of exhibition.

ACCEPTED ARTWORK - Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, Glass, Fiber, Functional, Digital, Photography, Installation, mixed media and New Genres. Proposals may include multiple disciplines.

SUBMISSION TIP - A comprehensive and detailed submission will include at least 3 images, biography and artist statement. Include your website and social media accounts.