2025 SF Open Studios 

Campaign Collateral Competition

ArtSpan’s 51st annual production of its citywide SF Open Studios program is a testament to the enduring power of art to bridge communities, and to the unyielding spirit of the artists who have been at the forefront of shaping San Francisco's cultural identity. ArtSpan and SF Open Studios have remained steadfast in its commitment to serving the artists who make San Francisco a hub of creativity, counter-culture, and free-thinkers. We are proud to have presented five decades of uninterrupted SF Open Studios, spanning historic earthquakes, soaring real-estate, the tech “boom,” the pandemic, and to now be contributing to the city's revival. 

ArtSpan Artists are invited to brag via their artwork submissions to our exciting 2025 theme of "FLEX." The SFOS Campaign Collateral Competition (CCC) seeks 6 artworks—each by different artists—to be widely used as part of ArtSpan’s expansive promotion of SF Open Studios. Our multimedia marketing campaign prominently features winning artworks on SFOS print and digital materials distributed throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.
 

FLEX💪 

"FLEX" invites ArtSpan artists to boldly showcase their most exceptional work—the pieces that demand attention and demonstrate their highest level of skill and creativity. This is your chance to show off, celebrate your talent, and share what makes your art stand out. Submit your boldest, brightest, and most brag-worthy work—pieces that pushed your skills to new heights, underscore your artistic excellence; compositions that make you ridiculously proud. We want to see what you consider your best in show. Now is your opportunity to visually brag—this is your time to FLEX 💪.
 

DETAILS

Entry Deadline: Sunday, April 27 @ 11:59PM
*You must have an active ArtSpan Artist Membership to be eligible for consideration*

Top Winner & Finalist Notification: May 2025

For Questions: email info@artspan.org

• 1 Top Winner and 5 Finalists will be selected, for a total of six awards.
• The Top Winner will receive a $1,000 artist stipend and complimentary Premier registration for SFOS 2025*
• 5 Finalists will be awarded $250 each, as well as complimentary Premier registration for SFOS 2025*

*By submitting to this call, you agree that if your artwork is selected you will participate in ArtSpan’s 2025 SF Open Studios program. 

• The Top Winner’s artwork will be featured as the 2025 SF Open Studios Guide Cover
• Finalists will be featured throughout the Guide and as page dividers between weekend sections.
• ALL will be prominently featured in additional programmatic promotional materials, collateral, and relevant public relations and marketing efforts.
• ALL selected artists agree to make their submitted artwork available for sale and inclusion in the SF Open Studios Exhibition for the duration of the 2025 season.
• If at the time of submission reviews you are not yet an active ArtSpan Artist Member, your submission will automatically be declined.

Finalists and top Winner are selected by SF Open Studios designer Jeremy Joven of JOVEN CREATIVE, with input from ArtSpan staff and board.

ABOUT SF OPEN STUDIOS 

A beloved annual tradition since 1975, ArtSpan’s citywide SF Open Studios (SFOS) offers residents and tourists the free opportunity to engage directly with artists actively contributing to the region’s unique creative culture and vibrancy. SFOS mobilizes hundreds of artists, who are members of ArtSpan, to open their studios from 11am to 5pm according to geographic quadrants that align with weekend dates. SF Open Studios is ArtSpan’s flagship program. In addition to SFOS, ArtSpan provides year-round artist support by way of artist professional development workshops, networking mixers, public art and exhibition opportunities, and more. Learn more at artspan.org/artists

ArtSpan’s 51st SF Open Studios season runs from September 19 through October 19, 2025.

ArtSpan’s Premier SFOS Registration includes:

• Artist Listing in the Printed Guide widely distributed to households and businesses in the SF Bay Area
• Eligibility to participate in the SF Open Studios Exhibition*
  *Selected artists are required to have their winning artwork on display at the SFOS Exhibition, and have the option to display an additional piece within the exhibition that fits within a 20” x 20” hanging space.
• Eligibility to be considered for the AMPLIFY: Juror's Choice Awards with recognition in the SFOS Exhibition & at the Art Tasting event
• Inclusion in the Online Guide & Map 
• Access to Venues Seeking Artists list to connect with spaces in San Francisco open to hosting SFOS artists for select weekends
• Eligibility to purchase discounted advertising space in the SFOS Printed Guide
• Branded Media Kit to help promote your SFOS participation

2025 Weekends & Neighborhoods
Click to View Map

ALL STUDIOS MUST BE OPEN FROM AT LEAST 11AM TO 5PM

Weekend 1 | Sept. 20 & 21

Richmond, Sunset, Inner Sunset, Parkside, Twin Peaks, West Portal, Excelsior, Cole Valley, Haight Ashbury, OMI (Outer Mission/Ingleside), Oceanview, Glen Park, Portola

Weekend 1 Studio Buildings include: Francisco Studios, Hunt & Gather, San Francisco Women Artists Gallery, Workspace Artists SF

Weekend 2 | Sept. 27 & 28

Noe Valley, Castro, Bernal Heights, West Mission, the Mission

Weekend 2 Studio Buildings include: 1890 Bryant Street Studios, Art Explosion - 2425 17th St, Art Explosion - 744 Alabama St, Miro Studios, Developing Environments, Pacific Felt Factory, Project Artaud, Redbrick Ceramic Studio, Ruby’s Clay Studio

Weekend 3 | Oct. 4 & 5

North Beach, Downtown, Duboce Triangle, Marina, Hayes Valley, Pacific Heights, Laurel Heights / Presidio Heights, Nopa/Divisadero, Nob Hill, Russian Hill, Chinatown, Civic Center, East Cut, South Beach

Weekend 3 Studio Buildings include: Journal Building

Weekend 4 | Oct. 11 & 12

SOMA, Dogpatch, Bayview, Potrero Hill, Mission Bay

Weekend 4 Studio Buildings include: Arc Studios & Gallery, Graphic Arts Workshop, Islais Creek Studios, Noonan Building, Public Glass, Revere Studios, Root Division, Yosemite Place

Weekend 5 | Oct. 18 & 19

Hunters Point Shipyard Artists
 

ELIGIBILITY

• You must be a current ArtSpan Artist Member to be eligible for consideration                               
• If selected, you must participate in SF Open Studios 2025
• All entries must be original and created within the past 5 years
• Submissions from artists who have not been awarded as a winner or finalist within the last 5 years, will be prioritized
• Collaborations are accepted
• Work must not have been used for print material purposes (other than to promote the work of artist)
• All selected artworks must have the submission available for viewing during the SFOS Exhibition from September 19 through October 19, 2025
• All selected artworks must be available for sale
• You must be the owner and creator of the submitted work

REQUIREMENTS

• Entries representing all media will be accepted, including painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, sculpture, mixed media, fiber, furniture, glass, new media.
• One entry per artist.
• Artist statement of originality – 150 words describing what inspired the piece and how it relates to the theme FLEX.
• Selected artists are required to have their winning artwork on display at the SFOS Exhibition from September 19 through October 19, 2025.
• By submitting to this call-for-entry you agree that your image may be respectfully modified or reconfigured for use across multiple platforms, including digitally, in print and online. Art may be altered for use in various orientations (vertical, horizontal, or square), and portions may be used as graphic accents.
• All entry image files for the initial entry should be submitted in JPEG format. Maximum 5MB.
• All image files must be titled with artist’s last name and first name (ex: SmithJane.jpg)
• If chosen, artist must provide a high-resolution image appropriate for print: 300 dpi image at least 8 inches wide in CMYK. Artist will be responsible for additional photography that may be required to meet print quality standards.
   

TIPS

Successful entries feature artwork that

• visually responds to the theme
• has elements which can stand alone and apart from the composition as a whole
• can have text overlaid or will work in conjunction with text

Winning pieces are traditionally used on billboards, posters, digital ads, and postcards, with accompanying text >>See 2023 Examples Here<<

• • •

SAMPLE RELEASE OF ARTWORK (for selected artists)

By submitting this form and digital artwork image(s) (“Artwork”), I hereby grant ArtSpan, SF Open Studios, and the ArtSpan board, employees, contractors, and assigns (collectively, “ArtSpan”) a perpetual, unlimited, non-exclusive and irrevocable license to use, display, and reproduce the Artwork and any corresponding identifying information or written material created, installed or produced in connection with this Agreement for ArtSpan’s promotion of SF Open Studios 2025, as well as for any other purpose, in all forms and media and in all manners, in whole or in part, and to authorize the making, display and distribution of reproductions and derivative works of the Artwork in ArtSpan’s sole discretion. I agree that I will not be entitled to any compensation or royalty payment from ArtSpan for such uses, reproductions or derivative works. 

I warrant that I created the Artwork submitted and that I am the sole copyright owner and, subject to the perpetual and irrevocable license granted to ArtSpan under this Agreement, shall retain the copyright to the Artwork. I agree to indemnify and hold ArtSpan harmless from any claims, losses, and liabilities (including attorney fees, court costs, and all other litigation expenses) arising out of any copyright infringement or other intellectual property rights claims in connection with ArtSpan’s use of the Artwork. I also agree that I will not make any claims against ArtSpan arising out of its selection and use of the Artwork.

I acknowledge that should ArtSpan select my Artwork as SF Open Studios 2025 Campaign Collateral Competition Top Winner or Finalist, I will make the original artwork available for additional digital photography and that ArtSpan may modify, crop or edit the Artwork, including any written material, in its sole discretion. I waive any right to inspect or approve ArtSpan publications or reproductions of the Artwork, including any written material that may be created in connection therewith.

I am 18 years of age or older and have the authority to enter into this license and release, and am fully familiar with its contents; or I am a parent or legal guardian submitting on behalf of a minor or dependent adult and have full authority to authorize this license and release, and agree to assume any liabilities therein.

Call for Art: “From the Mission & About The Mission”, Solo Exhibition with Art-In-Neighborhoods at Mission Bowling Club

ArtSpan and Mission Bowling Club invites artists who live in the Mission District or create work inspired by the Mission to submit solo show proposals for an opportunity to exhibit at Mission Bowling Club, curated by ArtSpan’s Art-In-Neighborhoods Exhibition Program.

We are seeking artists whose work engages with the rich cultural legacies, layered histories, and resilient spirit of the Mission District. Whether your practice documents, responds to, or is shaped by the Mission’s iconic landmarks—Clarion Alley’s murals, the rhythm of 24th Street, the gatherings at Dolores Park, or the lived experiences of its communities—we welcome your voice. This exhibition space is dedicated to artists from the Mission and those whose work reflects its stories. It aims to honor the generations of artists who have shaped the Mission as a creative hub, while offering a platform to continue that tradition—amplifying community perspectives through art, memory, and place.

The Dining Gallery at Mission Bowling Club offers artists a dedicated space to present and experience a cohesive body of work (10-12 pieces). Over the past year, we’ve hosted four curated solo shows, and we’re now excited to announce our renewed curatorial focus for the space. By highlighting artists and artworks rooted in the Mission District, we aim to bring the neighborhood’s creative energy into the gallery and provide a platform for local voices to be seen and appreciated.

This opportunity is open to both emerging and established artists, offering a chance to share your work with a broader audience, develop your practice, and connect with art supporters and collectors. Presenting multiple pieces in a curated setting allows viewers to engage more deeply with your ideas and artistic vision, creating space for meaningful connections and dialogue.

We encourage artists working in a variety of mediums to apply, including painting, drawing, photography, digital art, and mixed media. The only requirement is that all work must have a 2D wall-hanging element and be ready to hang with industry standard D-rings and wire. Priority will be given to artists with live, work or have meaningful ties with the Mission neighborhood of San Francisco.

Don’t miss this chance to showcase your work in one of the Mission’s most beloved community spaces! Submit your proposal today and join us in celebrating the creativity and spirit of the Mission District.

Please note, this opportunity is exclusively available to ArtSpan Artist Members. 

PLEASE REVIEW ALL IMPORTANT INFORMATION BELOW BEFORE APPLYING

 Important Information:

• Exhibiting artists receive 70% of any sales made.
• All exhibited artworks will be featured in ArtSpan's online store & regularly promoted on Instagram, Facebook and Linkedin.
• You must be a current or new ArtSpan Artist Member to be featured in this exhibition.
• Artist Reception is hosted by MBC with light bites, drinks for exhibiting artists + free bowling for all attendees!
  
   

 Dates and Details:

• Location: Dining Gallery, Mission Bowling Club, 3176 17th Street, San Francisco, CA 94110.
• Exhibition Dates: May 12, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025
• Submissions Deadline: Monday, May 12, 2025 @ 11:59PM.
• Artist Notifications: By May 16, 2025
• Artwork Drop-off/Install Date: Monday, May 26 @10AM
• Artist Reception: Tuesday June 24 @ 6-8PM.  *Artists must be available to attend the in-person reception.
• Artwork Pick-up Date: Monday, November 10 @ 10AM.

Artwork:

• Seeking: Artwork of all sizes and 2D mediums that fit the theme of responding to the Mission District. MBC’s Dining Gallery’s have intimate walls that can accommodate small to medium sized work (Max 36 inches on the longest side). 
• Hanging Hardware: All artwork must be ready to hang with the appropriate hardware (hooks and wire). Cleats and sawtooth hanging hardware cannot be accommodated.
• Installation: ArtSpan's installation team will manage the install after artwork is dropped off.
• Sales: All sales are processed through ArtSpan’s online store. Artists receive 70% of total sales. ArtSpan receives 30% of total sales.
• Security/Liability: Artwork will be installed professionally by ArtSpan staff members in the safest and most secure manner possible. All venue staff and patrons are instructed to be respectful and mindful of the artwork at all times. The artwork will NOT be insured for damage/theft/vandalism by the venue nor by ArtSpan during the exhibition. Artists are advised to obtain their own insurance for their artwork.

To Submit: Complete the following questionnaire and submit at least 8 artworks that are ready to hang, according to the instructions provided.

About the Art-in-Neighborhoods Program: The Art-In-Neighborhoods program strives to create visibility and accessibility for local arts in San Francisco by connecting communities with local artists and activating vacant spaces with vibrant, locally-made artwork. We partner with local businesses and building owners to bring pop-up art exhibitions and art events to dormant storefronts, empty spaces for lease, and businesses seeking artwork for their walls. Local artists who are ArtSpan members are given the opportunity to display, promote, and sell their artwork in these diverse venues. The Art-in-Neighborhoods program allows otherwise unused properties/spaces to become creative arenas for celebrating local arts.

Mission Bowling Club was founded in 2012 to combine the fun of family bowling with the ambiance and technique-driven approach one expects from San Francisco’s bars & restaurants. The spacious and airy warehouse that houses MBC provides a bright, family-friendly destination for a weekend afternoon excursion and, after dark, MBC is known as a great date night as well as a perfect place to blow off steam with friends. With a full restaurant and bar serving craft cocktails and elevated comfort food, Mission Bowling Club is an ideal location for company outings, holiday parties, birthdays, anniversaries, and even weddings. MBC is a woman and black-owned business with strong representation by women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ individuals in its staff and leadership roles.

Unleash your creativity and present your work at San Francisco’s premier bowling club! 

“Brightside”, An Art-In-Neighborhoods Exhibition presented by ArtSpan in partnership with San Francisco’s Ferry Building. We are seeking 2D and low-relief 3D wall-hanging work from ArtSpan Artist Members that evokes the magic of summertime. Selected artists will receive a stipend and the opportunity to exhibit in a highly visible public venue during a 4-day exhibition. The exhibition will be celebrated with a catered reception offering light bites and beverages for guests, friends, family, art supporters and other Ferry Building community members.

“Brightside” celebrates the boundless joy, vibrant colors, and carefree spirit that make summer unforgettable. We’re seeking artworks that evoke the anticipation of summer, the freedom of endless days, and the possibility of spacious rejuvenation. This exhibition offers a playful and nostalgic tribute to summertime bliss. 

Set within the Ferry Building—San Francisco’s historic gateway—the Grand Hall features colorful tile flooring and a dramatic skylight, offering a striking and sunlit environment exhibition for large-format works. Temporary exhibition walls will support artworks up to 40 inches wide by 72 inches tall, providing a fair-style layout designed for maximum visibility and impact.

ArtSpan will select five artists, each exhibiting 3–5 artworks that explore themes of summer, light, energy, transformation, and hope. This short-run exhibition, paired with a festive public reception, will give artists the opportunity to reach a broad audience in one of the city’s most iconic public spaces. This exhibition is open to both emerging and established artists who are current ArtSpan Artist Members. 

Key Themes to Consider:

• The glow of sunlight and the warmth of summer
• Rebirth, renewal, and the movement of seasons
• Lightness—both visual and emotional
• Freedom, travel, play, and pleasure
• Internal transformations and the joy of becoming

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

• Exhibiting artists each receive a $300 stipend
• Artwork will be displayed on temporary walls in a fair-style layout
• All exhibited artworks will be featured in ArtSpan’s online store and regularly promoted on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn
• All work must be 2D or low-relief 3D, wired and ready to hang (no cleats or sawtooth hardware)
• Maximum dimensions: 40 inches (width) x 72 inches (height)
•  Artists must be current or new ArtSpan Artist Members to participate
•  All sales are processed through ArtSpan. Artists receive 70% of total sales

DATES DETAILS:

• Location: Grand Hall, San Francisco’s Ferry Building (1 Ferry Building, San Francisco). 
• Exhibition Dates: Thursday, June 5 to Sunday, June 9, 2025.
• Submissions Opens: Friday, April 11 @ 12:01AM.
• Submissions Deadline: Tuesday, April 30 @ 11:59PM.
• Artist Notifications: Week of May 13.
• Artwork Drop-off/Install Date: Wednesday, June 4 @11AM.
• Artist Reception: Thursday June 5 @ 5-8PM (Artists must be available to attend the in-person reception).
• Public Exhibition Hours:      
  • Friday, June 6 to Saturday, June 7 @ 8AM to 6PM 
  • Sunday, June 8 @ 8AM to 3PM.

   

• Artwork Pick-up Date:  
  • Sunday, June 8 @ 4PM to 6PM
  • Monday, June 9 @ 11AM to 3PM.

   
  
   

ARTWORK REQUIREMENTS:

• Artwork must align with the “Brightside” theme.
• Accepted mediums: painting, drawing, photography, digital art, mixed media, and low-relief sculpture.
• Maximum size: 40” wide x 72” tall.
• All artwork must be wired and ready to hang.
• Installation will be handled by ArtSpan’s professional team.
• Artists are responsible for timely drop-off and pick-up.

TO SUBMIT:

Complete the application form and upload 3–5 artworks that are ready to hang. Please include an artist statement and a brief note on how your work connects to the themes of the exhibition.

ABOUT THE ART-IN-NEIGHBORHOODS PROGRAM: The Art-In-Neighborhoods program strives to create visibility and accessibility for local arts in San Francisco by connecting communities with local artists and activating vacant spaces with vibrant, locally-made artwork. We partner with local businesses and building owners to bring pop-up art exhibitions and art events to dormant storefronts, empty spaces for lease, and businesses seeking artwork for their walls. Local artists who are ArtSpan members are given the opportunity to display, promote, and sell their artwork in these diverse venues. The Art-in-Neighborhoods program allows otherwise unused properties/spaces to become creative arenas for celebrating local arts.

ABOUT THE FERRY BUILDING: The Ferry Building is an iconic, historic landmark that acts as the gateway to San Francisco and as a civic gathering place for residents and tourists alike. The Marketplace offers a vibrant collection of primarily local, independently owned shops and restaurants dedicated to the customers they serve. The Ferry Building is committed to the artisan food community and to fostering the values of that community. Operate as a community gathering-place for the celebration of local culture and cuisine.  Showcase small regional producers that practice traditional farming or production techniques. Promote the Bay Area’s vast diversity and serve as an incubator for artisan producers.  Collaborate with local authorities to build strong community and regional ties to the Ferry Building.  Collaborate with local transit authorities to build strong regional ties to the Ferry Building.