Inktober 2026 Pop-Up Art Show: Submission Guidelines

Please note: These guidelines are a work in progress and subject to change. We plan to finalize them by mid-October. Updates will be posted on:

Questions? Contact us at inktoberpop@unlikelyattitude.com.

Fill out this form to let us know that you are interested and to be alerted when submissions open.

1. Key Dates

MilestoneDate
Applications open[TBD]
Applications close[TBD]
Acceptance notifications[TBD]
Artwork drop-off[TBD]
Show dates[TBD]
Opening reception[TBD]
Artwork pickup[TBD]

2. Eligibility

  • Open to all artists 18 and older.
  • Artwork must be original work created by the applicant.

3. How to Apply

  • Where to submit: [TBD]
  • What to include: [TBD]
  • Selection process: [TBD]
  • Who decides: [TBD]
  • If the show is oversubscribed: [TBD]

4. Artwork Requirements

  • Theme: This show focuses on art created with the official Inktober prompt list. We applaud however you work creatively, but priority will be given to artwork created from the official list.
  • Number of pieces per artist: [TBD]
  • Size and weight limits (framed): [TBD]
  • Labeling: [TBD]

5. Media

  • Original, hand-drawn work in ink-based media is the focus of this show.
  • Prints are not accepted unless made in a traditional ink-based print medium (woodblock, linocut, etc.).
  • Digital inking is a legitimate art form, but this show gives priority to traditional media.
  • AI-generated artwork will not be accepted.
  • We are looking into ways for participants to produce and sell prints of their work. Let us know if you have ideas.

6. Content Standards

Work should be family friendly (think PG-13). Work will not be accepted if it contains:

  • Excessive violence
  • Sexually explicit content
  • Hate speech of any kind
  • Nudity: [TBD]

Content decisions are made by the organizers. [TBD]

7. Framing & Display

  • All work must be framed and ready for hanging with appropriate wire hanging materials.
  • Alligator/sawtooth hangers will not be accepted.
  • Unframed or alternative formats: [TBD]
  • If framing costs are a problem, please contact us at inktoberpop@unlikelyattitude.com. We are working on ways to mitigate the costs for anyone who is concerned. We don't want that to be a barrier to entry.

8. Fees

  • There will be a participation fee. Amount: [TBD] (depending on the cost of the venue, insurance, and any other event related costs).
  • 100% of the entry fee goes to expenses accrued mounting the show. Organizers and event helpers are volunteers and will not make any money from the participation fees.
  • Due date: [TBD]
  • Refund policy: [TBD]
  • Surplus or shortfall: [TBD]
  • If the participation fee is a problem, please contact us at inktoberpop@unlikelyattitude.com by [TBD]. We are working on ways to mitigate the costs for anyone who is concerned. We don't want that to be a barrier to entry.

9. Sales

  • Artwork can be for sale, but that is not a requirement for entry.
  • Artists are responsible for managing the sale of their own artwork, including delivery, payment, and any state or local sales tax.

10. Drop-off, Pickup & Liability

  • Drop-off logistics: [TBD]
  • Pickup logistics and unclaimed work: [TBD]
  • Insurance and liability: [TBD]

11. Promotion & Permissions

  • Permission to photograph and share accepted work: [TBD]

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