About the Show
From childhood pastimes and nostalgic board games to the subtle strategies of human relationships, games are woven throughout our lives. We play for pleasure, connection, competition, and sometimes control. Some games have clearly defined rules; others are unspoken, shaped by expectations, power, and human behavior.
Games People Play invites artists to explore the many meanings of Games we play—from the whimsical and familiar to the psychological and provocative. Interpretations may draw upon traditional games, childhood memories, sports, chance, risk, role-playing, deception, or the complex games we play with ourselves and one another.
Through a diversity of media, styles, and perspectives, this exhibition considers how games reflect our experiences, reveal our motivations, and shape the ways we navigate the world.
This is an open call to Arizona-based artists. All media and styles are welcome. Artwork will be selected based on artistic quality, relevance to the exhibition theme, diversity of style, and creative use of materials.
Games People Play invites artists to explore the many meanings of Games we play—from the whimsical and familiar to the psychological and provocative. Interpretations may draw upon traditional games, childhood memories, sports, chance, risk, role-playing, deception, or the complex games we play with ourselves and one another.
Through a diversity of media, styles, and perspectives, this exhibition considers how games reflect our experiences, reveal our motivations, and shape the ways we navigate the world.
This is an open call to Arizona-based artists. All media and styles are welcome. Artwork will be selected based on artistic quality, relevance to the exhibition theme, diversity of style, and creative use of materials.
Entry Fees
- $35 for up to 5 pieces
Fees are paid at the time of entry through ShowSubmit
Sales
All artwork, including sold artwork, must remain in the gallery for the duration of the exhibition unless prior arrangements are approved by the curator(s).
Arizona Art Alliance and First Studio Gallery does not take a commission on sales. Artists retain 100% of their sales and handle transactions directly with patrons. All artwork, including sold artwork, must remain in the gallery for the duration of the exhibition unless prior arrangements are approved by the curator(s).
Arizona Art Alliance and First Studio Gallery does not take a commission on sales. Artists retain 100% of their sales and handle transactions directly with patrons. All artwork, including sold artwork, must remain in the gallery for the duration of the exhibition unless prior arrangements are approved by the curator(s).
Artists are expected to:
- Promote the exhibition and receptions.
- Invite art collectors, friends, and guests.
- Attend receptions, engage with visitors, and contribute refreshments.
Entry Guidelines
- Open to artists based in Arizona.
- Artists may submit up to five original works.
- All media and styles are welcome; work must relate to the exhibition theme.
- Artwork must not exceed 48 inches on its longest side, including framing.
- Submit high-quality images suitable for exhibition promotion and social media.
Entry Form Information Required
- Artist Name (as it should appear on labels)
- Artwork title, dimensions, medium, and price.
- Contact information: name, email, phone, website, and social media.
Please review all information carefully before submitting your entry.
Artwork Requirements
- All accepted artwork must be prepared for exhibition.
- Maximum dimensions: 48 inches on the longest side, including framing. (possible Exceptions)
- Identification: Label each artwork with the artist’s name, phone number, and title.
- 2D artwork: Must be securely wired and ready for installation. NO Sawtooth hangers.
- 3D artwork: Maximum weight of 30 pounds.
- Large artwork: Artists are responsible for installing their own work in coordination with the gallery.
Artists are responsible for artwork delivery and pick-up. Alternative arrangements must be approved in advance by emailing [email protected]
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Gallery Hours
Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM, by appointment.
About First Studio
First Studio is a unique venue with a rich history as Phoenix’s first television and radio studio. Today, it houses creative businesses and serves as a vibrant gallery space where artists, friends, and patrons come together to share art and ideas in a welcoming environment.
Questions?
Contact us at: [email protected]
Please share this call with fellow artists!
Please share this call with fellow artists!
Agreement of Entry and Liability
I have read, understand, and am in agreement with the entire contents of this Call for Entries/Prospectus and though every effort will be made to protect submitted artworks, I understand that the First Studio Gallery, its artists and volunteers, will assume no responsibility or liability for loss or damage. I understand and agree that First Studio and First Studio Gallery is held harmless and not responsible for the replacement, repair, nor payment of any artwork that may be damaged or stolen or acts of God during the time it is being displayed or stored at this venue.
By submitting artwork to this Exhibit, I hereby agree to relieve the above-mentioned parties from any and all liability to myself, my artwork and/or property. I certify that my artwork is original.
Image and Filename Specifications
- File Format: Submit original, high-quality JPEG image files. Other formats (e.g., PNG, TIFF) are not accepted.
- Crop Your Image: Ensure only the artwork itself is visible in the image. Do not show any visible matting, frames, or background distractions.
- Orientation: Make sure your image is oriented correctly (right side up) so that the artwork appears in its intended viewing direction.
- Image Size: You do not need to resize your image files before uploading. The system will automatically resize them. Smaller images cannot be enlarged to meet the requirements, so ensure your images are high resolution before uploading.
- File Names: You do not need to rename your files before uploading them. The system will handle any file naming requirements.
- File Size: There is a 30MB maximum file size limit. Larger image files will take longer to upload and process.
Additional Entry Information
- You will pay for your entry by credit or debit card using our secure checkout system.
- After your entry is submitted and paid for, you may log back in to review your entry, edit artist and image information, and add or substitute images up until the entry deadline (January 4, 2027.)
- Entry fees are not refundable and must be submitted and paid by the entry deadline.
- Entries cannot be accepted or changed after the deadline. Incomplete entries will be disqualified.
Notifications Are Posted in Your Account
Results will be posted in your ShowSubmit account by the end of the day on January 11, 2027. You will also receive an email.
Log in and check your account. We are unable to answer individual inquiries about results.
Support
Questions about this exhibition?
Contact ([email protected]) for questions about the prospectus, FSG, eligibility, artwork requirements, drop-off, pick-up, sales, etc.
Need help with ShowSubmit?
Visit our Help Center or Entry Guide for guidance on image uploads, payments, and managing your entry. If you still need help, email ShowSubmit Support ([email protected]). We respond Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm Eastern.