CaFÉ — a professional platform for submitting applications to competitions and public art projects
Access to major opportunities often begins not with inspiration, but with understanding the rules of the game. This platform is one of the main gateways into the American art infrastructure. Through it, museum competitions, municipal programs, public commissions and institutional exhibitions are managed. Yes, the format is strict. Yes, the requirements are formalized. But it is precisely here that artists gain access to publications, major exhibitions, public art and long-term projects, even without being physically present in the United States.
A single system instead of scattered applications
The platform is used by galleries, museums, state art programs and major cultural institutions. Unlike directory websites, it operates as a centralized submission system. The artist creates a profile once and uploads a portfolio, then uses it to apply to multiple competitions. Organizers, in turn, manage all stages of selection within one interface.
A key tool for institutional programs in the USA
Hundreds of listings are published on the platform every year: juried exhibitions, grant programs, public art commissions (Public Art), municipal initiatives, festivals, residencies and museum competitions. A significant portion of these opportunities is available exclusively through CaFÉ, which is why the platform is considered essential for participation in Art in Public Places programs and other institutional projects.
Focus on the USA — and an immediate advantage
Most listings are oriented toward the United States: museums, municipalities, universities and art centers. International opportunities are fewer, but this does not mean the platform is closed. On the contrary, many competitions accept online applications and are open to international artists. This allows participation in American projects without relocation or complex offline procedures.
How the submission system works
The system is designed to reduce technical workload when applying to multiple competitions. The artist creates a profile, uploads images of works and fills out a basic information form. When applying to a specific call, the artist simply selects works from the uploaded portfolio and completes the required fields. The platform does not participate in artistic selection and does not influence jury decisions — it functions solely as a technical intermediary.
Image requirements and portfolio preparation
To apply, images must be uploaded in JPEG/JPG format with a minimum size of 1200 px on the longest side and a maximum file size of 5 MB. Titles, dimensions, techniques and short descriptions must also be provided. These requirements reflect institutional standards under which juries compare applications, making image quality critically important.
Access and terms of use
Browsing listings on the platform remains free of charge. Participation conditions depend on the specific organizer: some competitions are free, others require a registration fee. These conditions are always stated in the description, allowing artists to evaluate feasibility in advance.
A strict structure and unified technical requirements make the process more transparent. There is less randomness and more clarity: it is clear what materials are required and in what context they will be evaluated. For artists working with institutional projects, this format becomes a professional skill, rather than an obstacle.
Who the platform is best suited for
CaFÉ is particularly useful for artists, photographers, sculptors, public art authors, students and professionals oriented toward institutional competitions and careers in the USA, who are ready to work within a formalized system and use online submission as a gateway to the international context. The platform interface is available in English only.
