Open Call:  Artist Led Exhibition  Space: Birdland, 706 Mountford Ave., Raleigh, NC

For creatives looking for the opportunity to build their skills in installation, curation, and exhibition management.

VAE invites artist groups to submit proposals for exhibitions to be held in the Birdland gallery space. We are seeking groups of 2–4 artists for a 6-week exhibition run, offering an opportunity to present cohesive, ambitious, or experimental work in a professional gallery setting.

*Note* Because of the scarcity of gallery space in the area, we will not be doing solo shows in order to give more artists opportunities to exhibit.

About the Opportunity

Selected artists will have full access to the gallery for installation, programming, and events throughout the exhibition period. Artists are encouraged to think creatively about how to use the space,  from traditional exhibitions to performances, workshops, discussions, or collaborations.  For any artwork sold during the show, the commission rate will be a 90/10 split (Artist/VAE)

In addition to the use of the Birdland Gallery space, we are teaming up with the NCMA,  who will provide space at the museum for a workshop, artist talk and/or performance.  In the application you will be asked for a brief description of what you would like to do at the NCMA.  VAE will aid in the coordination between you and NCMA to make this possible. Artist s stipend available and dependent on the programming event.

Participants will be responsible for:

• Installation and deinstallation of their work
• Promotion, reception, programming and marketing of their exhibition
• Gallery sitting during open hours (schedule to be determined collaboratively)
• Handling of artwork sales and delivery/pickup of sold artwork.      

What we provide:

• A professional exhibition space for 6 weeks
• $250 stipend as the artist(s) sees fit
• Promotional support through VAE and Birdland’s network, newsletter, and social media channels
• Guidance and coordination from the gallery team on how to best use the space and opportunity    

Submission Requirements

1. 4-10 images that represents the artists applying     
2. A short exhibition proposal or show statement (300–500 words) outlining your groups’ concept and how you would use the space
3. A short description of what you would like to do at the NMCA that aligns with your Birdland project/exhibit    
4. Contact information and social media or website links    

Timeline

• Submission Deadline:10/18/2026
• Notification: 10/31/2026    
• Exhibition Dates: 
• 01/18/27 - 02/28/27
• 05/17/27- 06/30/27
• 11/15/27 - 12/31/27

For questions about the call or submission process, please email info@vaeraleigh.org