41st edition
Chelsea International Fine Art Competition
The 41st edition will bring together 30 artists for a collective exhibition at Agora Gallery in Chelsea, New York — with cash prizes, publication features, and ARTmine exposure for selected artists.
Enter up to 7 artworks for $49 through October 5, 2026.
Competition is open — Enter now41st edition
AWARDS, PRIZES & BENEFITS
NY Art Competitions Overview
- Collective Exhibition30 artists
30 artists selected to exhibit at Agora Gallery in Chelsea, New York. Includes press release, PR outreach, opening reception, email invitations, gallery listing, social media promotion, and a listing on agora-gallery.com.
- Cash Prizes$1,000
5 selected artists each receive a cash prize of $1,000.
- Zine AwardArtisSpectrum
5 artists featured in ArtisSpectrum, Agora Gallery’s contemporary art publication, reaching an international audience of collectors and curators.
- Newsletter FeatureArtist feature
5 artists receive a dedicated feature in Agora Gallery’s newsletter, distributed to an extensive mailing list of collectors, consultants, and art professionals.
- Online Promotion / ARTmineARTmine.com · 1 Year
5 artists receive one year of exposure on ARTmine.com, including access to Agora Gallery’s art writers for a professional artist statement.
- Honorable MentionComplimentary Entry
10 artists receive an Honorable Mention and a complimentary entry to the 42nd Chelsea International Fine Art Competition.
Read our guidelines to help you with your entry.
40th edition · August 2026 · Agora Gallery, Chelsea, NY 
39th edition · August 2025 · Agora Gallery, Chelsea, NY 
38th edition · August 2024 · Agora Gallery, Chelsea, NY
Testimonials
Such a wonderful experience from beginning to end! I was incredibly honored to be included in the 40th Chelsea International Fine Art Competition exhibition. The communication throughout the entire process was exceptional, and the exhibition itself was beautifully curated. The opening reception was such a special evening, and everyone at the gallery made the artists feel genuinely welcomed and celebrated. So grateful to have been a part of it!
Alicia Staley JohnsonUnited States · 40th CIFAC Selected Artist
The exhibition was beautifully curated, the opening reception was fantastic, and the Agora team was responsive, professional, attentive to detail, and genuinely kind throughout. As both an artist and gallery owner, I know how much work goes into creating a successful exhibition and making artists feel supported. Kudos to the entire Agora team for a wonderful experience!
Paul KronerUnited States · 40th CIFAC Selected Artist
The work shown was diverse yet cohesive and thought-provoking; curated with care and precision by a kind, thoughtful, energetic, and engaging staff.
Jay HatfieldUnited States · 39th CIFAC Selected Artist
I participated in the 39th Chelsea International Fine Art Competition – Collective Exhibition. From the initial guidance and follow-up to the installation, opening reception, and press release, the team provided thoughtful support every step of the way. It was a truly wonderful experience. Exhibiting in Chelsea, New York, is something very special for an artist, and I truly appreciated the care and attention given to each of us throughout this process.
Nobuko TsurutaUnited States · 39th CIFAC Selected Artist
Our partners
The Agora Group provides artists and industry organizations with prime locations and services in New York City and worldwide, offering the space and resources to grow and promote their businesses.
Located in the heart of Chelsea, the group is an extension of Agora Gallery, established by the late artist Miki Stiles in 1984 as a platform for artists to exhibit their work and engage with the community. Over time, the Agora Group has grown to accommodate the evolving demands of the art market. While still operating as a commercial gallery, it now includes an artist marketing agency, AGI Fine Art, an event planning venue, White Space Chelsea, and hosts juried exhibitions through NY Art Competitions. Under the leadership of Stiles’ son, Ariel Kahana, the Agora Group continues to uphold Stiles’ vision, fostering creative and professional growth while connecting artists with collectors and industry professionals all over the world.
Before you enter
Competition guidelines
Eligibility
All visual artists worldwide, age 18 and older, are eligible to enter. View the complete competition terms for full details.
Submission Material
- Image files of your work in JPG format
- Title, dimensions, and medium of each piece
Entry Fee
All entrants: 5 images included, $55, additional images $5 each.
Promotional pricing may apply at checkout. Check the competition home page for current promotions.
Accepted Media
Accepted: Painting, Drawing, Sculpture, Photography, Digital media, Printmaking, Mixed media.
Not accepted: Video art / film, Performance art, Jewelry, Crafts, AI-generated art (AI-ART).
Artists are encouraged to submit images of several pieces or multiple views of the same piece.
Artwork Requirements
All submitted work must be available for sale.
Two-dimensional work may not exceed 75 × 85 inches (192 × 218 cm); three-dimensional work may not exceed 72 × 72 × 24 inches (184 × 184 × 61 cm).
If you have any further questions, send us an email at cifac@nyartcompetitions.com.