Somerville Art Fair Application

Artist Open Call: Join the SAF (Somerville Art Fair) by Sanidad Design

We are excited to invite professional artists to apply for our upcoming art event series hosted at Upstairs at Bow. This is a unique opportunity to connect directly with the vibrant Somerville community. Our mission is to show that original art is within reach for our local community, creating opportunities for artists to place their work in homes and businesses throughout the area.

By connecting emerging artists directly with the community, we aim to foster mutual growth and align with Bow Market's collaborative ethos. If accepted, selected artists will be able to participate in the following:

1. One of two SAF Art Salon Events (June 5th and August 7th)where artists will be able to showcase and sell their work and connect with the community for an evening of conversation and mingling.

2. The SAF Auction (November 8th) where artists can auction off up to 3 pieces of their work.

3.  The Holiday Art Fair (December 12th)where all artists will showcase and sell their work together at the beginning of the holiday season!

4. Ongoing artist education programming on subjects like sales, marketing, branding, pricing, and more. These programs will also be available to non-SAF artists for a small fee.

Artists will retain 100% of sales of their work for all events!

We prioritize building direct relationships between artists and buyers, educating artists on sustainable business practices, and fostering an inviting environment where the community can explore, ask questions, and connect deeply with the art. By doing so, we encourage stronger support for artists and their work.

Requirements for Application:

  • Professional Practice: We seek artists who have been practicing their craft professionally and demonstrate a commitment to their art.

  • Online Presence: A professional website/social media page showcasing your portfolio is required, alongside an active social media presence to amplify the event's visibility.

  • Acceptable Media: We accept physical 2D and 3D media only. Submissions must be tangible artworks. Unfortunately, we cannot accept video or digitally displayed media.

  • Ready to Display/Sell Works: Please make sure you have a selection of at least 5-10 works you’re ready and able to display by the time of the first event that best represent you and your artistic medium.

  • Presence at Events: Artists are required to be present at all three events that is displaying their work.

  • Application Fee: $30 (non-refundable). This fee will go to Sanidad Design (parent to SAF) to help fund the event series. At this time, we cannot waive application fees, but we hope to secure further funding in the future to help make this more accessible!

Disclaimers:

By applying to this open call, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

  1. Liability for Artwork: Sanidad Design LLC and John Lakov are not responsible for any damage, theft, or harm to artwork submitted, displayed, or transported to/from the event.

  2. Event Changes: Sanidad Design LLC reserves the right to make changes to the event schedule, location, or format as needed. While we will make every effort to notify participants promptly, we are not liable for any losses resulting from such changes.

  3. Personal and Property Safety: Artists participate at their own risk. Sanidad Design LLC is not liable for any accidents, injuries, or damages to personal property during the events.

  4. Third-Party Liability: Sanidad Design LLC is not responsible for any disputes, claims, or liabilities arising between participants and any third parties (e.g., venue staff, attendees, or other artists).

  5. Printing/Framing/Install Fees: We are not responsible for any fees related to printing/framing/installation.

  6. Application Fee: The $30 application fee is nonrefundable under any circumstances, including, but not limited to, application withdrawal, rejection, or event cancellation.

How to Apply:

  1. Submit this form using the fields below.

  2. Pay the $30 application fee as part of your submission. You can find the payment at the end of the form below.

We are excited to celebrate original art and create opportunities for artists to grow their practices while connecting with a supportive and curious community.

Deadline: [April 15, 2026]
For inquiries, contact John Lakov [johnlakov@sanidaddesign.com].

Join us in making art accessible, inspiring, and a cornerstone of Somerville’s creative spirit!


Application Form

Application Fee