open call exhibitions
A collective showcase of fresh perspectives from new JCAL artists
Event details
Emancipation: the rise of womanhood
January 16–March 6, 2026
Tuesday-Saturday, 9 am - 9 pm
Jamaica Arts Center
161-04 Jamaica Ave
Jamaica, NY 11432
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Free admission
JCAL OPEN CALL
In this annual exhibition, JCAL uplifts new voices and fresh perspectives, offering a platform for Queens-based visual artists who are new to the space or returning after five years.
The next JCAL Open Call exhibit will be Emancipation: The Rise of Womanhood, curated by Alma Leya.
Description: This exhibit explores the challenges that every woman faces in her life. From family to society, from jobs to institutions and sometimes it is a mental challenge. But we women go through the changes, win over the situation, empower ourselves and move forward. We process the challenges and set free from legal, social, or political restrictions. Liberate ourselves and rise to new heights. This exhibition will reflect this concept and depict "Women's emancipation".
The 2025 JCAL Open Call exhibition, Key of Life, showcased work from 10 artists selected by curators Wendy Arimah Berot and Courtney Ffrench. Centered on the rhythms and elements that give life meaning, the exhibit explored what drives us forward, what keeps us moving through challenges and adds purpose to our journey. Each artist offered a unique interpretation of the “keys” that unlock resilience and possibility.
GET INVOLVED
The next JCAL Open Call group show will take place in January 2026. Join the JCAL Artist Registry to be the first to receive updates regarding this artist opportunity!
