At Play 2026

At Play 2026 is an open call from Maryland Federation of Art (MFA) inviting artists from around the world to submit work that emerges from experimentation, curiosity, and freedom from outcome. The premise is simple: make the way children do — without asking why.

There are no medium restrictions. Any original 2D or 3D work (including video) is eligible, provided it follows MFA's exhibition guidelines and was created within the past three years. A maximum of six works per artist may be entered.

All submissions are blind juried by Gage Branda, Curatorial and Development Coordinator at the American Visionary Art Museum. Selected works will be shown in MFA's Virtual Gallery from 14 August to 14 October 2026, with awards announced on 1 September.

Entry fees: 1–2 entries cost $30 USD; up to 4 additional entries are $4.50 each. Fees are non-refundable.

Sales: Work must be listed for sale (or Price on Request). Artists retain 80% of any sale (85% for MFA members). MFA handles sales tax and reimburses up to $40 in shipping for artists in the 48 contiguous US states.

Eligibility: Open to all artists internationally, with the exception of sanctioned countries. Entry is made through artcall.org.

Key dates:

• 31 March 2026 — Online entry opens
• 27 May 2026 — Entry deadline (11:59 PM)
• 23 July 2026 — Notifications sent
• 14 August 2026 — Exhibition opens
• 1 September 2026 — Awards announced
• 14 October 2026 — Exhibition closes