Light and Shadow Art Competition
Contrast, form and perception. An international juried open call by Curatone.art.
Current edition
About the theme
Light and Shadow is about the oldest contrast in art and how artists use it now. We look for work where light and dark do more than model a form: where they reveal or hide, build space, set a mood or carry a meaning of their own.
Any medium is welcome, from painting, drawing and printmaking to photography and digital work. Classical chiaroscuro and contemporary approaches are judged side by side; what matters is how deliberately the contrast does its work.
Exhibition catalogues
Printed exhibition catalogues, available on Amazon.
Publication is included in the finalist fee. Printed copies are sold separately.
“Really nice catalog of fine art and artists.”
The series in numbers
Past editions
How judging works
- 01Curatorial selectionCurators review every entry and select the finalists.
- 02ConfirmationSelected artists confirm their participation and pay the finalist fee.
- 03Jury evaluationThe jury scores the finalist works on a 10-point scale.
- 04AwardsThe scores decide the award places.
Every work is scored independently by 30 credentialed art professionals on a 10-point scale.
Frequently asked questions
How often does Light and Shadow run?
The theme returns roughly once a year. Each edition has its own deadline and results page.
Is it free to enter?
Entry terms are set for each edition and shown on its page. Recent Curatone calls are free to enter, with a one-time finalist fee only if the jury selects your work.
Is photography accepted?
Yes. Photography is judged alongside painting, drawing and every other medium.
Where can I see past winners?
In the Past editions section on this page and in the winners archive.
Get notified about the next Light and Shadow call
Leave your email and we’ll write once, when the next edition opens.