Native and Indigenous Art Exhibition 2026 Open Call at Angels Gate Cultural Center

Overview

Angels Gate Cultural Center is seeking artwork from Native and Indigenous contemporary artists based in Southern California for a gallery exhibition in fall 2026, timed to coincide with the Many Winters Gathering of Elders (October 8–11, 2026), a community event of ceremony and knowledge-sharing. The exhibition opens September 12, 2026, and closes October 11, 2026. All media welcome—contemporary and traditional artworks must be suitable for indoor gallery conditions.

Eligibility

Open to Native and Indigenous contemporary artists and artisans based in Southern California of all career levels. Up to three artworks may be submitted per artist; entries beyond three will be omitted from consideration. Artworks must be suitable for indoor conditions and fit within the shared gallery space. Works that off-gas chemical odors, pose physical safety hazards, contain hate speech or explicit content unsuitable for all ages, may damage walls or floors, or harbor pests are not suitable. Political or social messaging itself is not censored. Due to limited gallery size, only 30–60 artworks will be accommodated depending on size and medium.

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: July 23, 2026
• Artists Notified: August 7, 2026
• Artwork Delivery: August 21–22, 2026, 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
• Exhibition Opens: September 12, 2026, 10 AM – 5 PM
• Artists' Opening Reception: September 13, 2026, 1 PM – 4 PM (tentative)
• Many Winters Gathering of Elders: October 8–11, 2026
• Exhibition Closes: October 11, 2026
• Artwork Pickup: October 13–17, 2026, 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Benefits & Awards

All exhibiting artists receive a modest exhibiting honorarium upon timely delivery and completion of loan agreement and W9 form. Work is insured at fair market value, up to a combined total of $200,000 for all works on view. AGCC provides marketing and publicity support, installation support for ready-to-hang works, and limited gallery technology (screens, headphones, projectors). Performance artists may have opportunity to perform during the exhibition. Artists may optionally list works for sale; sales are facilitated by the Center at 75% payable to the artist and 25% commission to AGCC.

How to Apply

Apply online by July 23, 2026. A jury panel of Native arts professionals will review submissions based on artistic quality, artistic intent, diversity of media and representation, and feasibility within the gallery space. Applicants should not contact jury panel members directly regarding their submissions.

Submission & Delivery

No application fee. Local delivery by the artist is recommended for artwork delivery August 21–22, 2026, 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM. Artists may arrange and pay for their own shipping if a pre-paid return label is provided. Complex installations require the artist to be present during the installation period. Gallery ceiling heights: first floor 9 feet 3.5 inches; second floor varies.

Location

Angels Gate Cultural Center, 3601 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro, California, within the Los Angeles Harbor region.