A color-forward show inspired by Florida’s iconic color language
Call for Art
"Seeds of the Sun"
We’re seeking vibrant, garden-inspired works, whether literal or metaphorical. We're looking for art that feels warm, alive and courageous; art that carries the energy of growth, color, hope, and emergence.
Acceptable sizes:
12 to 40 in (31 to 102 cm)
Deadline: March 18
Sarasota’s most talked-about gallery
Be Seen by Real Collectors & Curators
Your art deserves more than a social feed.
This April, Milan Art Gallery will host Seeds of the Sun — a juried exhibition celebrating bold, colorful garden scenes and imaginative interpretations of growth, warmth, and becoming. Work that says, now is my time to bloom.
Artists from across the world will be selected to show their work in our Sarasota gallery and online to collectors nationwide.
Every accepted artist receives:
A spot in our in-person gallery show (April 10-24)
Online representation on our collector platform (April 10-24)
A 50/50 sales split on all artwork sold
$6,000 in Prizes and Career-Changing Opportunities
Numerous artists will win a spot in our in-person and online shows—exposing you to thousands of collectors, and establishing gallery representation and a future gallery relationship.
Two artists will also be awarded $2,000 each in cash prizes.
Two artists will each receive $1,000 premium art supply shopping spree.
Total Value: $6,000 in prizes and art supplies.
All winners will also be featured on Milan Art Gallery’s website and social channels and gain exclusive online representation to our collector network.
$6,000 in Prizes and Career-Changing Opportunities
Numerous artists will win a spot in our in-person and online shows—exposing you to thousands of collectors, and establishing gallery representation and a future gallery relationship.
Two artists will also be awarded $2,000 each in cash prizes.
Two artists will each receive $1,000 premium art supply shopping sprees.
Gallery Prize
In-Person Gallery Show
2 weeks
Online Show
2 weeks
Cash Prize
$2,000
Collectors Award
In-Person Gallery Show
2 weeks
Online Show
2 weeks
Cash Prize
$2,000
People's Choice
In-Person Gallery Show
2 weeks
Online Show
2 weeks
Art Supplies
$1,000 value
Online Choice
In-Person Gallery Show
2 weeks
Online Show
2 weeks
Art Supplies
$1,000 value
Total Value: $6,000 in prizes and personalized career support.
All winners will also be featured on Milan Art Gallery’s website and social channels and gain exclusive online representation to our collector network.
Enter Today & Get the "Gallery Excellence" Bundle Included
Every artist who submits receives instant access to our training created by professional artists for emerging artists:
An Artist's Guide to Getting into Galleries
(Sold for $35)
103 Pages that will change your life forever
Abstract Floral | Video Masterclass
(Sold for $25)
Create your artistic breakthrough with this technique
Get these life-changing resources included in your artwork entry!
*Limited time access to Gallery Bundle — expires April 18th.
Open Call For Art
This is Your Opportunity to Showcase Your Skills
1
Secure Your Entries:
1 for $25
3 for $50
7 for $100
All entries are reviewed by our jurors. Artists will be notified of accepted paintings by March 20.
2
Upload up to 7 paintings
You'll get instructions to upload your artwork before checkout.
(Between 12 to 40 in (31 to 102 cm) for any side, for example: 12"x12", 24x36", 30"x40" etc.)
3
Get Gallery Ready
Access your gallery bundle materials.
If selected, you'll receive directions on preparing your artwork and shipping to the gallery.
A maximum of seven submissions is permitted per person.
ENTER HERE
*No refunds will be issued after purchase.
*Artwork must meet gallery ready standards (see FAQ below).
After completing your entry purchase, you’ll receive three emails:
Purchase Receipt — Proof of purchase and number of artwork entries you secured.
Artwork Submission Confirmation — So you can rest assured that we received your entries.
Gallery Bundle Access — Instant access to our professional art guides and training.
Meet the Jurors Behind Seeds of the Sun
Together they bring decades of artistic, curatorial, and entrepreneurial expertise to discover artists whose work moves people and culture.
Elli Milan
Founder, Milan Art Institute
A professional artist of 27 years with over 10 000 paintings sold, Elli is a recognized authority on art career development.
Her books How to Get into a Gallery and How to Create Authentic Art That Sells have guided artists worldwide.
Jock Armour
Gallery Director, Milan Art Gallery Sarasota
Jock brings a seasoned curatorial eye and years of experience connecting collectors with emerging artists.
He oversees both Sarasota galleries and ensures each collection meets the highest standards of craft and commercial appeal.
Jake Dunn
Creator and Host of The Outstanding Artist
As creator and showrunner of the award-winning series The Outstanding Artist, Jake has spent years spotlighting the next generation of creative talent.
He is also co-owner of Milan Art and drives its mission to inspire excellence and originality in artists worldwide.
Important Dates
Feb 23
Call for Art Opens
March 18 (11:59 PM ET)
Submission Deadline
March 20
Artists Notified
April 3
Artwork Due in Gallery
April 10
Gallery Show Opens (Sarasota)
Online Show Opens (virtual)
April 24
In-Person Show Ends
Online Show Ends
Gallery Show — Opening Night Celebration
Experience the excitement as we unveil the winning works at our Seeds of the Sun gallery show on April 10th in Sarasota, Florida. All winners are invited to attend in-person and be recognized among fellow artists and collectors.
If You’re Accepted
If your artwork is selected as one of the pieces for Seeds of the Sun, here’s what to expect:
1.
Official Notification – Email on March 20 with shipping instructions.
2.
Shipping – Artists cover shipping to the gallery (art must arrive by April 3). Artists are responsible for return shipping cost for any unsold works.
3.
Display – Your work is professionally installed in our Sarasota gallery and listed for sale online (April 10 - 24).
4.
Collector Exposure – The gallery markets the show to collectors through events and digital campaigns.
5.
Sales & Payments – Artwork sales are handled with a 50/50 split. Artists receive payment within 30 days of sale.
F.A.Q.
Everything You Need To Know
Can I submit from outside the U.S.?
A: Yes! Artists outside the U.S. are absolutely welcome to participate.
Your artwork just needs to be able to ship and arrive at the gallery by the delivery deadline.
Please note:
Fine art is typically exempt from U.S. tariffs, and we do not cover any customs fees or duties.
Artists are responsible for researching and correctly labeling their artwork for international shipping.
Be sure you’re familiar with your country’s shipping regulations to ensure a smooth delivery.
What mediums are accepted?
A: Any painting medium (oil, acrylic, or mixed media)
Artwork must be between 12 inches and 40 inches (between 31 and 102 centimeters) for any side, for example: 12"x12", 24x36", 30"x40" etc.
Artwork should also be ready to hang.
What happens if I’m not selected?
A: You’ll still receive your gallery bundle and exclusive emails to help you grow and prepare for future opportunities.
What happens if I’m selected?
A: You’ll receive shipping instructions via email. Artists cover shipping to Milan Art Gallery, and also return shipping for any unsold works. All accepted pieces are displayed in the Sarasota gallery and listed for sale in our online exhibition.
Are there commissions on sales?
A: Yes — artwork sold during the show is handled on a 50/50 split, with 50% to the artist and 50% to the gallery. Please keep this in mind when pricing your artwork.
What is your refund policy for submitted entries?
A: Once artwork entries have been purchased, they are non-refundable.
How many entries can I purchase/submit?
A: A maximum number of 7 entries is allowed per person.
Does my artwork need to meet any specific requirements?
A: Artwork must meet our gallery ready standards and be ready to hang upon arrival:
Gallery-wrapped canvas (at least 1.5") or a quality float frame
Canvas must be taut and firmly stretched
Wired and equipped with proper hanging hardware
Signed by the artist
Varnished for protection
Edges painted if unframed
If framed, the frame must be included in the total artwork dimensions
Artwork must be within the acceptable dimensions (between 12 inches and 40 inches on any side)
Artwork must include the standard gallery label (we will provide this)
Can I submit artwork that is not for sale?
A: No. All artwork entered into the Open Call for Art must be available for sale.
Your Art Deserves the Spotlight
Don’t wait for someone else to discover you — this is your moment to step into the gallery world and share your voice with collectors across the nation.
