Call for Art - Smile, Bro.: A Visual Conversation on Healing & Joy

Smile, Bro.: A Visual Conversation on Healing & Joy is a national art exhibition exploring joy, vulnerability, and emotional expression through the experiences of Black boys and men.

In many spaces, Black men and boys are often expected to carry strength without softness. This exhibition creates space to highlight humanity, happiness, healing, and everyday moments of joy that deserve to be seen and celebrated.

Held in recognition of Men’s Mental Health Month in June, Smile, Bro. invites artists to reflect on the importance of emotional well-being, self-expression, and joy in the lives of Black boys and men.

This exhibition is presented in collaboration with Black Artist Forward, advancing equitable opportunities, resources, and visibility for Black artists. Special thanks to Region Six Project for opening their doors and supporting this moment for art and community.

Artists are encouraged to submit work that reflects the lives, emotions, and experiences of Black boys and men—from quiet moments of reflection to expressions of laughter, brotherhood, pride, and resilience.

Suggested Themes:

Joy and everyday happiness
Emotional vulnerability
Mental wellness and self-care
Brotherhood and community
Cultural pride and identity
Smiling as resistance, survival, or healing

ELIGIBILITY

This call is open to artists nationwide.

Artists do not have to be Black or male to submit work. However, submitted artwork should reflect or center Black boys and men in alignment with the theme of the exhibition.

We welcome artwork across a variety of mediums including:

Painting
Photography
Illustration
Mixed Media
Sculpture
Digital Art

Both emerging and established artists are encouraged to apply.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

NOTE: Submission does guarantee acceptance into the exhibition. Please don’t fill out the artist agreement until you’ve received a confirmation email of your acceptance.

Artists may submit:

Up to 3 artworks
A short artist statement
Artwork details (title, medium, dimensions, year)
High-resolution images of each submitted work
Artwork Requirements:

Artwork must not exceed 6 ft x 6 ft in size
Artwork must not exceed 100 lbs in weight
Work should be ready to hang or display

Ai ARTWORK WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

COPYRIGHT & IMAGE USE

By submitting to Smile, Bro., artists confirm that all submitted work is original and created by the artist.

Selected artworks may be used for promotional and marketing purposes (including social media, digital promotions, and press) leading up to and during the exhibition. Artists will always be credited appropriately.

EXHIBITION DETAILS

Selected works will be featured in the Smile, Bro. Art Exhibition, a curated experience celebrating Men’s Mental Health Month in June and highlighting the importance of joy, emotional expression, and well-being within the lives of Black boys and men. Exhibition dates: June 5 - July 5. Opening reception: June 5, 2026 7p-9p.

DEADLINE

April 30th, 2026