OSTEN BIENNIAL of CONTEMPORARY VISUAL ARTS Skopje 2026

The OSTEN BIENNIAL (organized by OSTEN Skopje, North Macedonia) is an event dedicated to new, innovative, and convention-breaking contemporary art. It challenges artists to step outside established academic rules into the free space of creation, regardless of form, technique, or medium. Artists aged 18 and over are welcome to apply individually or as a group (up to 7 artists) with a joint concept or joint work. Eligible Works: Artists may apply with up to five works created between 2024–2026. Diptychs, triptychs, and polyptychs are considered a single work. Accepted mediums include: Art on paper (drawing, print, mixed media) 2D and 3D art (painting, objects, installations, textile art) Photography, video art, multimedia art Participation Fees: Individuals: €65 EUR (approx. $130 NZD) Groups: €130 EUR (approx. $260 NZD) Application Process & Deadlines: May 31, 2026: Online application deadline. Do not send physical works at this stage. Applicants must submit a short bio, portrait photo, and high-res digital images (300dpi, max 2MB) of their submitted works. June 30, 2026: Shortlisted artists and Finalists announced. July 1 – 20, 2026: Finalists only will be instructed to mail their original, unframed works. (Artists are responsible for shipping costs and must declare a customs value under €20 EUR / $40 NZD). August / September 2026: Final Jury selection. September 30, 2026: Awards announced. Selected works exhibited at the official exhibition will remain in the collection of the OSTEN Museum. The donation of other submitted works is optional.