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.
Jason Hayth – Generational Wealth · 40th edition selected artist
41st Edition · Early Bird
Enter more.
Pay less.
Enter up to 7 artworks for $49 through October 5, 2026. Have your work considered for exhibition at Agora Gallery in Chelsea, New York, alongside cash awards and publication opportunities.
Early bird closes · 11:59 PM ET
Early bird
$49
7 images · ends Oct 5
Regular
$55
5 images · from Oct 6
Worldwide · Artists 18+ · All mediums considered
- Early bird
- Regular
- Deadline
- Results
- Exhibition
- Chelsea, NY
41st 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.
Early Bird Now Open – closes October 5, 2026
Deadline: May 4, 2027 | Results: June 8, 2027
The exhibition
Selected artists exhibit at Agora Gallery, Chelsea NY. Below: opening receptions from recent editions, each captioned with its own.
40th edition · August 2026 · Agora Gallery, Chelsea, NY 
39th edition · August 2025 · Agora Gallery, Chelsea, NY 
38th edition · August 2024 · Agora Gallery, Chelsea, NY
View the exhibition — 40th edition 360° tour
Full exhibition archiveSelected work
From the 40th edition
One work per selected artist. Open any one to move through them.
41st edition
Jury
Work is reviewed by a rotating panel of expert jurors, each representing a different field in the art world, ensuring a fair and balanced selection process.
Hayley Ferber
Curator, Educator, Artist · Brooklyn, New York
Hayley Ferber is a Brooklyn-based independent curator, educator, and artist with a professional mission to support a creative community of multidisciplinary artists.
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Shlomit Dror
Curator · New York / Jerusalem
Shlomit Dror is an independent curator working between New York and Jerusalem.
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Sara Reisman
Curator, Educator, and Writer · New York
Sara Reisman is a curator, educator, and writer, whose curatorial and educational engagements have focused on socially engaged art, the history of exhibition making, public art, artist books, and the intersections between art and social change.
View full bio
Before you enter
Competition guidelines
Official DatesWhen does it run?
Accepted MediaWhich mediums qualify?
EligibilityWho can enter?
Entry FeeHow much does it cost?
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
Your work belongs in Chelsea.
Early bird · 7 images for $49 · ends October 5, 2026
Enter the 41st CIFACOur partners
Gallery · Chelsea, New York · Est. 1984
Agora Gallery was established in 1984 by a fine artist with the goal to provide artists with opportunities to present their creations to the New York art market. Agora Gallery provides a number of prizes for the Chelsea International Fine Art Competition, including promotion on their popular online website, a profile in their biannual fine art magazine and participation in an exhibition in Chelsea.
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Artist Marketing Agency
AGI Fine Art was established by Agora Gallery of New York City to leverage our experience and support artists who would like to exhibit their art at leading art world events, including Art Miami Week and the NY Art Expo. Our experienced team is dedicated to provide you with a seamless and stress free experience while providing the best possible exposure.
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Online Fine Art Gallery
ARTmine is an online fine art gallery for art professionals and enthusiasts, including private and corporate collectors, interior designers, and art consultants. This contemporary art collection, operated by Agora Gallery, offers the opportunity to view and buy artwork by some of the most exciting national and international contemporary artists.
Visit ARTmine