Blue Star Contemporary (BSC), San Antonio’s first and longest running contemporary art non-profit, is currently accepting applications for their 2022 exhibition cycle. Artists based in Texas, nationally, and internationally are eligible for this open call and are invited to submit a portfolio of their work to be considered for future exhibition opportunities, public programs, and other special projects. Exhibitions in development draw from competitive applicants whose work aligns with BSC’s mission and core values. San Antonio artists founded BSC in 1986 as a space to show their work, thus supporting and exhibiting work by our region’s artists remains a central part of our programming, in addition to working with artists from across the globe. (Blue Star Contemporary, 2022)

Artists should submit a portfolio to give the organization an understanding of the visual and conceptual themes within their practice and their voice as artists. The submission helps BSC identify artists that align with the organization’s creative vision and audiences. Exhibitions are planned approximately two years in advance.

BSC’s values of equity, diversity, and inclusion are foundational to our mission to serve all artists. These values are demonstrated by creating the conditions for an approachable application process, by continuing efforts to support artists of all backgrounds, and by working towards inclusivity and accessibility for applicants. Blue Star Contemporary inspires the creative genius in us all by nurturing artists through innovative contemporary art and fulfills this mission guided by five core values– being artist-centric, forward-thinking, inclusive, educational, exceeding expectations, and surprising visitors. Artists we engage share in these values and conduct themselves with integrity and respect when collaborating with BSC and its staff.

BSC is a W.A.G.E. certified organization. We pay all exhibiting artists an honoraria based on our operating budget and W.A.G.E. guidelines. Artists participating in or leading public programs are also paid an honoraria.

Artists can visit Blue Star Contemporary for more information on eligibility and application guidelines. There is no application fee, deadline to apply Is March 1, 2022. Direct questions regarding the submission process should be directed to Jacqueline Saragoza McGilvray, Curator and Exhibitions Manager by phone at jack@bluestarcontemporary.org.

BSC was founded for artists by artists in 1986 in a grassroots movement sparked by the cancellation of the first major museum exhibition of contemporary art in San Antonio. Six arts supporters and artists founded Contemporary Art for San Antonio to provide an exhibition venue for artists and the public. With the support of a handful of donors and property developers, the founders, artists, and volunteers converted an abandoned warehouse into a gallery for the first annual Blue Star Exhibition. Over the years, BSC has grown to encompass a professional staff, a robust calendar of onsite and offsite exhibitions, community collaborations, creative youth development programs, international exchange opportunities for artists, and public art projects.