In celebration of World Art Day, Visual Arts Mississauga (VAM) invites artists of all ages to take part in its 2026 World Art Day Community Exhibition. This year’s theme, Garden of Expression: Cultivating Community Through Art, encourages participants to explore ideas of growth, identity, belonging and the power of artistic voice. Whether you are just beginning your creative journey or are an established artist, this exhibition offers a vibrant platform to share your work and connect with the wider community.

VAM is seeking submissions of two-dimensional artwork that reflect the richness and diversity of artistic expression. Through this exhibition, the organisation aims to highlight the importance of the arts, celebrate a variety of techniques and media, and foster creativity across generations. From bold brushstrokes to intricate prints, every piece contributes to a collective celebration of imagination and community spirit.

For the 2026 exhibition, submissions will be accepted in three categories:

• Kids/Teens: 30 artworks (9 x 12 inches)
• Youth/Emerging Artists: 30 artworks (16 x 20 inches)
• Adult/Established Artists: 30 artworks (16 x 20 inches)

Please note that once each category reaches capacity, submissions will close, which may occur prior to the stated deadline.

Key Dates

• Online submission deadline: Sunday, March 22, at 11:59 pm
• Artwork drop-off: Thursday, March 26 to Saturday, March 29
• Exhibition dates: Monday, March 30 to Sunday, April 19
• Opening reception: Friday, April 10, 2026, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm

Terms of Entry

The exhibition is open to artists of all ages, with one submission permitted per artist. Eligible works must be two-dimensional and may include painting, drawing, mixed media, hand-pulled prints, fibre art, photography, digital art or new media.

Maximum dimensions are 16 x 20 inches for artists aged 16 and over, and 9 x 12 inches for those under 16. Artwork by artists under 16 will be mounted on black Bristol board. Submissions must be recent works completed between 2023 and 2026 and must not be AI-generated.

Applications must be submitted online via the designated form, with image files clearly labelled with the artist’s first name, last name and artwork title. As this is an in-person exhibition, selected artists must be able to deliver their work to VAM during the scheduled drop-off period.

All accepted works will be displayed in the VAM Gallery throughout the exhibition. Artists are responsible for collecting their artwork by May 2, 2026; unclaimed pieces will be disposed of after this date.