Creative arts submissions are the primary way artists, writers, and performers share their work with the world. Whether you are looking to publish a short story, display a painting in a gallery, or enter a film festival, the submission process is your gateway to professional opportunities. Understanding how this system works is essential for anyone looking to transition from a hobbyist to a recognized professional in their field.
Navigating the world of submissions can feel overwhelming at first due to the variety of platforms and requirements. However, most organizations follow a similar set of standards and expectations. By learning how to find the right outlets and prepare your materials correctly, you can increase your chances of acceptance and build a professional reputation. This guide will walk you through every stage of the creative arts submission process.
Understanding the Different Types of Submissions
The first step in the submission process is identifying where your work belongs. Different creative fields have specific outlets that cater to different styles and experience levels. Knowing the landscape helps you target the right audience for your specific project.
Literary Journals and Magazines: These publications look for poetry, short stories, and creative non-fiction. Some are digital, while others are print-only, and they range from small university-run journals to major international magazines.
Galleries and Exhibitions: Visual artists submit their work to “Calls for Entry” or “Open Calls.” These are often organized by local art councils, private galleries, or museums looking for specific themes or media.
Contests and Awards: Many organizations host annual competitions that offer cash prizes, publication, or residency opportunities. These are often more competitive than standard submissions but can provide a significant boost to your resume.
Film and Music Festivals: For those in digital media, festivals are the primary way to gain exposure. These submissions usually require a high-quality digital file and a press kit explaining the project.
Where to Find Submission Opportunities
Finding the right place to send your work requires consistent research. Fortunately, several digital tools and databases track open calls for artists and writers across the globe. Using these resources can save you hours of searching.
- Submittable: This is the most popular platform used by thousands of organizations to manage submissions. You can create a free account to browse active calls and track the status of your entries.
- Poets & Writers: This website maintains an extensive database of literary journals and writing contests, including information on deadlines and entry fees.
- EntryThingy and CaFÉ: These platforms are specifically designed for visual artists to find gallery exhibitions and public art commissions.
- FilmFreeway: This is the industry standard for submitting films to festivals and screenplay contests worldwide.
In addition to these databases, consider looking at local arts council websites and social media groups dedicated to your specific craft. Often, local opportunities have less competition and provide a great starting point for beginners.
Preparing Your Submission Package
A professional submission is more than just the artwork itself. Most editors and curators require a “submission package” that provides context for your work and information about your background. Preparing these documents in advance will make the process much faster.
The Artist Statement
An artist statement is a short paragraph that explains the “why” behind your work. It should describe your creative process, your inspirations, and the themes you explore. Keep this document clear and avoid using overly complex academic language.
The Professional Bio
A biography is a brief summary of your career as an artist. It should be written in the third person and include your location, your education (if relevant), and any previous publications or exhibitions. For beginners, it is perfectly acceptable to keep this short and focused on your current projects.
The Cover Letter
Many submissions require a brief cover letter. This should be professional and concise. Address the editor or curator by name if possible, state what you are submitting, and provide a polite closing. Avoid explaining the work in the cover letter; let the work and the artist statement speak for themselves.
Following Formatting and Guidelines
The most common reason for immediate rejection is failing to follow submission guidelines. Every organization has specific rules regarding how they want to receive work. These rules are not suggestions; they are requirements that help the staff manage high volumes of entries.
File Formats: Ensure your files are in the requested format, such as .doc, .pdf, or .jpg. For visual art, pay close attention to the required resolution and file size. Files that are too large may be blocked by email servers or submission portals.
Anonymity: Some contests use a “blind” judging process. This means your name should not appear anywhere on the actual manuscript or image file. Always check if the guidelines require you to remove your contact information from the work itself.
Word and Page Counts: Respect the limits set by the organization. If a journal asks for a maximum of 3,000 words, do not send 3,500. Exceeding these limits often results in your work being discarded without review.
Understanding Submission Terms
Before you click the submit button, it is important to understand the terminology used in the industry. This ensures you are protecting your rights and following professional etiquette.
Simultaneous Submissions: This refers to sending the same piece of work to multiple outlets at the same time. Most organizations allow this, but they usually require you to notify them immediately if the work is accepted elsewhere.
Multiple Submissions: This means sending more than one distinct piece of work to the same organization during the same reading period. Many journals discourage this unless specifically stated otherwise.
Rights and Permissions: When your work is accepted, you will usually sign a contract. Most journals ask for “First North American Serial Rights,” which means they have the right to be the first to publish the work. After publication, the rights typically revert back to you.
Reading Fees: Some organizations charge a small fee (usually $3 to $25) to cover administrative costs. While common, be cautious of high fees that seem out of proportion with the opportunity provided.
Managing Responses and Rejections
The creative arts are highly competitive, and rejection is a standard part of the process. Even the most successful artists face frequent rejections. Learning to manage these responses professionally is key to long-term success.
Wait times can vary significantly. Some digital magazines respond within weeks, while print journals may take six months or longer. It is helpful to keep a spreadsheet or use a tracking tool to monitor when you submitted your work and when you should expect a response.
If you receive a rejection, do not take it personally. It often has more to do with the specific needs of the current issue or exhibition than the quality of your work. Simply move on to the next opportunity on your list. If you receive an acceptance, respond promptly to any requests for edits or biographical information to ensure a smooth publication process.
Conclusion
Submitting your creative work is a brave and necessary step in your artistic journey. By researching the right outlets, preparing a professional package, and strictly following guidelines, you position yourself for success. Remember that consistency is often the most important factor; the more you submit, the more opportunities you create for your work to be seen.
For more advice on building your professional presence, explore our articles on creating an online portfolio, writing a professional bio, and managing digital assets. Every submission is a learning experience that brings you one step closer to your creative goals.