All artworks should meaningfully engage with the 2026 Biennial Exhibition theme of “everywhere home.” 

A wide range of media is encouraged, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, installation, photography, mixed media, collage, fiber arts, journals, drawing, mobiles and more. 

All work must be original and completed within the last three years. No dimension of any work may exceed 10 feet.  No weight may exceed 100 pounds. Declared value may not exceed $2,500. Works may be created in two- or three-dimensional media and must meet the full eligibility guidelines to be considered. No video or sound submissions can be considered at this time.

The 2026 Biennial Exhibition is open to contemporary artists 18 years of age and older, who live, work or have a studio in San Diego County. 

One submission per artist. 

Digital submissions will be open Aug. 1 to 31, 2026. The live application link will appear on the Cannon Gallery webpage at that time. Each artist may fill out and submit the application and upload a single image of their work to apply. 

Only digital submissions through the live form on the Cannon Gallery webpage will be accepted. No in person submissions. 

Participating artists will be notified by email flyer whether their work of art has been selected for exhibition in "everywhere home." Notification emails will be sent on or before Sept. 9, 2026. Select artists will be invited to participate in the curated 2026 Biennial Exhibition.

Please not contact the Cultural Arts Department or Cannon Gallery regarding submissions status or acceptance.

Artists who are invited to participate are responsible for door-to-door delivery of ready-to install artwork to Cannon Gallery staff to be in the exhibition. Hand delivery of accepted hang-ready work to the gallery will take place on Sept. 28, 29 and 30, 2026.  

We will contact selected artists to provide additional drop-off details.

Artists and the community are invited to attend a free public reception on Nov. 7, 2026.  Awards will be presented by judges during the reception. 

• Judges Individual Choice awards of $1,000 to (3) selected exhibiting artists. 
• Community Choice award of $1,000 to a selected exhibiting artist. 

• Aug. 1: Submissions open 
• Aug. 31: Submissions close
• Sept. 9: Artist notifications complete 
• Sept. 28 to 30: Artwork delivery 
• Oct. 23: 2026 Biennial Exhibition opens 
• Nov. 7: Artist reception, awards announced 
• Jan. 3: 2026 Biennial Exhibition closes 
• Jan. 11 to 13: Artwork pick-up 

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