Artist Application: A4ID’s First Art Exhibition 2026

Welcome to A4ID’s first annual Visions of Inclusion Art Exhibition. We are delighted to invite artists to be part of this inaugural exhibition, celebrating creativity, inclusion, and the power of art to inspire meaningful social change. Visions of Inclusion is an exhibition that transforms A4ID’s mission and values into powerful visual storytelling. Artists are invited to submit original artworks that reflect their unique perspectives on inclusion, community empowerment, equality, and development through creative expression.

We are excited to celebrate the diverse voices of South African artists and look forward to showcasing artwork that challenges perspectives, inspires conversation, and contributes to a more inclusive future.

To take part we’ll need 2 things from you: Your artwork and your submitted application form.

Please read all info on this page and then go to the Artist application form to continue your application

Artwork Requirments Submission Process Artist Application Form Contact Us

Visions of Inclusion is the first official art exhibition presented by A4ID, celebrating the power of creativity to inspire inclusion, empower communities, and drive meaningful social change. This exhibition provides a platform for visual artists to express themselves freely and fearlessly while interpreting A4ID’s vision of inclusive development through their own unique perspectives and lived experiences.

More than an exhibition, Visions of Inclusion is a movement that brings together artists, communities, and changemakers to demonstrate how art can educate, inspire dialogue, and advocate for a more inclusive and equitable South Africa. Every artwork will contribute to a collective story of hope, opportunity, innovation, and community empowerment.

The exhibition welcomes entries from visual artists aged 18 years and older residing in Gauteng and the North West Province. Emerging and established artists are encouraged to participate and share their voices through a variety of artistic mediums, including painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, photography, digital art, mixed media, video art, and installation art.

Participating artists will receive the opportunity to showcase their work to the public, gain exposure, connect with fellow creatives, and become part of a growing network of artists committed to using creativity as a force for positive social impact,

If you believe in the power of art to unite people, challenge perspectives, and create opportunities, we invite you to become part of the Visions of Inclusion story and help shape the future of inclusive development through creativity.

Johannesburg

Art Submissions: 30th September 2026
Submission Venue: Hope School, Pallinghurst Road, Westcliff, Randburg, 2193
Exhibition Dates: 17th October 2026
Venue: Hope School, Pallinghurst Road, Westcliff, Randburg, 2193

Preparation of Artworks

To participate in the Visions of Inclusion Art Exhibition, artists are required to create an original artwork that reflects their personal interpretation of A4ID’s vision of inclusive development, community empowerment, creativity, innovation, equality, and opportunity.

The theme, “Visions of Inclusion,” encourages artists to use their creativity to tell powerful stories that reflect both the realities of our communities and the future they hope to build. Artists are encouraged to create work that inspires hope, promotes inclusion, celebrates diversity, and demonstrates the role of art in creating positive social change.

Your artwork may portray both the positive and negative aspects of society. We encourage artists to explore the challenges that people face daily while also presenting visions of hope, resilience, and transformation. Through honest artistic expression, we aim to raise awareness, encourage meaningful conversations, and inspire action toward a more inclusive South Africa.

Artists may draw inspiration from themes including, but not limited to:

Poverty and unemployment
Inequality and social injustice
Gender-based violence and the safety of women and children
Youth unemployment and limited opportunities
Access to education and lifelong learning
The digital divide and unequal access to technology
Disability inclusion and accessibility
Mental health and emotional well-being
Crime, violence, and substance abuse
Homelessness and food insecurity
Environmental conservation and climate sustainability
Community unity, diversity, and cultural identity
Entrepreneurship and economic empowerment
The positive impact of art, education, and technology on society
Hope, resilience, leadership, and building stronger communities

Artists are not limited to these themes and are encouraged to present their own interpretation of inclusion and development, provided that their work aligns with A4ID’s values and mission.

Who May Enter?

The Visions of Inclusion Art Exhibition is open to emerging and established visual artists who are 18 years of age or older. Artists from all backgrounds, cultures, and artistic disciplines are encouraged to participate.

To be eligible for selection, entrants must meet the following requirements:

Submit a fully completed and signed application form.

Submit an original artwork that aligns with the Visions of Inclusion theme and reflects A4ID’s values of inclusion, community empowerment, creativity, advocacy, and social development.

Ensure that the artwork is completed and delivered on or before the official submission deadline. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Present the artwork in an exhibition-ready condition. Works that are damaged, poorly presented, or not suitable for display may not be accepted.

Submit only original work created by the participating artist. Plagiarised or copyrighted works belonging to another person will not be accepted.

Include the required artwork information, including the title, medium, dimensions, selling price (if applicable), and artist statement.

Artists are required to submit a portfolio showcasing a selection of their previous work as part of the application process. The portfolio will assist the selection panel in understanding the artist’s style, experience, and creative practice.

A4ID reserves the right to decline any artwork that does not comply with the exhibition guidelines or that is considered inconsistent with the exhibition’s theme, objectives, or professional standards.

By submitting an artwork, the artist confirms that they have read and accepted the exhibition rules and conditions.

Artwork Requirements

All artworks must be original and created by the participating artist.
All visual art mediums are welcome, including painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking, photography, digital art, mixed media, installation art, and video art.
Artwork must be exhibition-ready, suitably framed, mounted, or otherwise prepared for display where applicable.
Each submission must include the artwork title and a brief artist statement (100–200 words) explaining how the artwork relates to the Visions of Inclusion theme and A4ID’s mission.
All artworks must be delivered before the official submission deadline.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)-generated artwork is not permitted. All submitted artworks must be conceived and created solely by the participating artist. Any artwork found to be wholly or substantially generated using AI image-generation tools will be disqualified from the exhibition.

The Visions of Inclusion Art Exhibition is more than a showcase of artistic talent, it is a platform for advocacy, storytelling, and community engagement. Every artwork should encourage viewers to reflect, start meaningful conversations, and imagine a future where every person has the opportunity to thrive and belong.

Scale and Size of Artworks

To ensure that all artworks can be safely transported, displayed, and accommodated within the exhibition space, the following size requirements apply to all submissions:

Paintings, Drawings and Photography

The artwork itself may not exceed the dimensions of A1 size (594 mm × 841 mm).
The combined size of the artwork and its frame may not exceed A1 dimensions (594 mm × 841 mm). Any artwork, including its frame, that exceeds the maximum permitted size will not be accepted for the exhibition.
All framed works must be secure, clean, and fitted with appropriate hanging fixtures.

Sculptures

Sculptures must not exceed 100 cm in height, width, or depth.
Sculptures must be stable, self-supporting, and safe for public display. Any artwork that poses a safety risk or requires specialised installation may not be accepted.

Video Art

Video artworks must have a maximum running time of 5 minutes.
Videos should be submitted in a high-quality digital format compatible with standard exhibition equipment. Artists are responsible for ensuring that all audio and visual content functions correctly.

General Requirements

All artworks must be delivered in an exhibition-ready condition.
Works that exceed the prescribed size limitations or are unsuitable for display may not be accepted by the selection panel.
A4ID reserves the right to decline any artwork that cannot be safely installed, displayed, or transported within the exhibition venue.
Artists who wish to submit works outside these specifications must obtain prior written approval from the exhibition organisers before the submission deadline.

Submission Requirements

To be considered for the Visions of Inclusion Art Exhibition, artists must submit the following:

One (1) or two (2) original, exhibition-ready artworks.
A fully completed and signed application form.
A certified copy of a valid South African ID or passport.
An artist statement (100–200 words) explaining the inspiration behind the artwork and how it relates to the Visions of Inclusion theme and A4ID’s mission.
A bank confirmation letter or official proof of banking details (required if the artwork is available for sale).
The artwork title, medium, dimensions, and selling price (if applicable).

Please note:

Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Late submissions will not be accepted.
Only original artworks created by the applicant are eligible.
All artworks must be delivered in a clean, stable, and exhibition-ready condition.

Submission Process

All artworks must be completed, original, and ready for exhibition before being submitted. Artists are required to ensure that their work is properly prepared, presented, and suitable for display.

Artists must also complete the entire application form and submit all required documents when dropping off their artwork. Incomplete applications may not be accepted.

Johannesburg Submissions

Date: 30th September 2026
Location: Hope School, Pallinghurst Road, Westcliff, Randburg, 2193
Submission Times: 10:00 – 15:00 (Remember to let us know what time you’re coming!)

Selection & Collection

Following the submission process, all artworks will undergo the official selection process. Artists whose artworks have been selected for the Visions of Inclusion Art Exhibition will receive confirmation from A4ID.

Artists whose artworks are not selected will be notified and required to collect their artwork from the designated collection point.

Collection Location: Hope School, Pallinghurst Road, Westcliff, Randburg, 2193
Collection Date: 5th October 2026
Collection Time: 10:00 – 15:00 (Remember to let us know what time you’re coming!)

Artists must present their artwork collection receipt when collecting their work. Artworks must be collected within the specified collection period. A4ID will provide further instructions regarding collection once the selection process has been completed.

Auction & Prizes

Selected artworks may be included in the Visions of Inclusion Art Exhibition Auction, subject to the artist’s consent and the exhibition guidelines. The auction aims to promote participating artists while supporting A4ID’s mission and future community initiatives.

Prizes and awards may be presented in selected categories to recognise outstanding artistic achievement, creativity, and interpretation of the exhibition theme.

Further details regarding the auction process, prize categories, judging criteria, and award structure will be announced by A4ID prior to the exhibition.

Sponsors & Contributors

The Visions of Inclusion Art Exhibition would not be possible without the dedication, support, and collaboration of the many individuals and organisations who share A4ID’s vision of creating a more inclusive and empowered society.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the A4ID Board of Directors, members, volunteers, and organising committee for their commitment, leadership, and continued efforts in bringing this inaugural exhibition to life.

We also gratefully acknowledge the valuable contributions of our supporting partner Hope School for graciously allowing the use of their venue.

Together, we are building a platform where creativity inspires inclusion and creates opportunities for lasting social impact.