Coquitlam 2027–28 Visual Art and Photography Exhibitions: Metro Vancouver Artists Apply by 12 November
A municipal exhibition opportunity for emerging Metro Vancouver artists
The City of Coquitlam in British Columbia has opened applications for its 2027–28 Visual Arts Exhibition Programme. Emerging artists aged sixteen or older from the Metro Vancouver area are invited to propose two-dimensional visual works, including painting, drawing, printmaking, collage and photography. The programme gives preference to artists based in Coquitlam and does not accept artists already represented by a professional gallery.
This is a regional presentation opportunity rather than an unrestricted international digital installation prize. Artists whose practice involves photography or digitally prepared prints may find an appropriate exhibition route if the submitted results meet the two-dimensional requirements. Video projections or moving-image installations are not listed among the accepted formats and should not be assumed eligible.
Choose one of three exhibition paths, not all of them
Applicants must choose only one exhibition opportunity. The group exhibition uses the theme 'Something Blue' and asks for artwork featuring the colour blue, subtly or prominently. It is scheduled at Town Centre Park Community Centre from 13 September 2027 through 1 March 2028. Artists exhibiting for the first time are especially encouraged to consider this format.
The photography route is associated with the Capture Photography Festival and its 'Still Life' theme of tablescapes, floral arrangements and everyday objects. It runs 1 March–10 September 2027, also at Town Centre Park Community Centre. Solo exhibitions have no imposed theme and are scheduled at City Hall for either 1 March–10 September 2027 or 13 September 2027–1 March 2028. Submitting to two routes would make the application ineligible.
Who is eligible and what support selected artists receive
The municipal call is for artists living in the Metro Vancouver area, with preference given to local Coquitlam practitioners. Applicants must be at least 16 and must not be represented by a professional art gallery. Artists at different career stages are welcomed within this emerging-artist framework, with first-time exhibitors directed towards group programmes.
The City confirms that accepted artists will receive an honorarium, but its brief webpage does not state the dollar amount. Do not budget for an imaginary guaranteed stipend. The Artist Information Package explains the display and administration arrangements; applicants should check responsibilities for artwork preparation, framing, transport, sales, insurance and return of works before committing to an exhibition.
Application period: 15 October–12 November 2026
Applications opened 15 October 2026 and close on 12 November at 11:59 p.m. local time. Artists can apply online via the separate links for Something Blue, Capture Photography Festival or Solo Exhibitions. The City also makes PDFs for each route available to people who prefer a paper submission, with mailing instructions and image requirements.
Paper applications can be sent to Arts & Culture Program Coordinator, Culture Services, City Hall Coquitlam, 3000 Guildford Way, Coquitlam, BC V3B 7N2. Applicants sending their work by mail should allow sufficient delivery time; online applications also require enough time for images and portfolio information to upload correctly before the deadline.
Prepare a coherent portfolio and confirm installation rules
A clear application will focus on how individual artworks form a strong selection for the chosen theme and place, with accurate titles, dimensions, medium and supporting images. The solo exhibition specifically requires a cohesive set of works with a shared artistic direction. These are practical interpretation points, not replacements for the municipal forms.
The City provides an Artist Information Package and individual applications on its official programme page. General questions can be sent to exhibit@coquitlam.ca. Before applying, confirm gallery representation status, the priority for Coquitlam residents, and all physical display requirements. Selection is competitive and the call does not promise an exhibition to every applicant.
Source: City of Coquitlam Visual Arts Exhibition Programme 2027–28, accessed 18 October 2026. Artists may apply for only one of the listed exhibition opportunities; accepted artists receive an honorarium, amount not specified on summary page.