Top 10 Boutique and Emerging Art Fairs with Active Open Calls in 2026
As we move through 2026, the shift toward boutique and specialized fairs has opened up unique opportunities for independent artists. Unlike mega-fairs, many of these smaller events have dedicated Open Calls for solo projects, emerging artist sections, or curated installations.
Below is a curated list of 10 boutique and influential fairs that currently have active or upcoming submission windows for 2026.
1. London Contemporary Art Fair | 16th Edition
- Focus: An international forum for direct exchange between artists and collectors, emphasizing collective and solo projects across photography, installation, and performance.
- Open Call Detail: Currently seeking submissions for its March/April 2026 edition at the ELEMENTS Contemporary Art Space.
- Deadline: January 30 – February 2026 (Rolling phases).
- Website: itsliquid.com
2. Hybrid Art Fair | Madrid
- Focus: A key event during Madrid’s Art Week, Hybrid is famous for its experimental format, often taking place in hotel rooms to create an immersive, boutique atmosphere.
- Open Call Detail: Often features a “Displaced” program for site-specific installations and solo projects by independent artists.
- Deadline: March 2026 (Check site for 2026/27 cycle details).
- Website: hybridart.es
3. The Other Art Fair | Global (London, NYC, Sydney)
- Focus: Specifically designed to bypass the traditional gallery model, this fair allows artists to sell directly to the public. It is the gold standard for independent, boutique-style commerce.
- Open Call Detail: Active calls for various 2026 editions (London March, Brooklyn April, Sydney June).
- Deadline: Varies by city; usually 3-4 months prior to the event.
- Website: theotherartfair.com
4. Art Vancouver | Canada
- Focus: Western Canada’s premier art fair, celebrating its 10th edition in 2026. It serves as a significant platform for both leading and emerging talent to reach North American collectors.
- Open Call Detail: Open to independent artists for booth applications and the “Artist Showdown” competition.
- Deadline: February – March 2026 (Final late-stage calls).
- Website: artvancouver.net
5. Felix Art Fair | Los Angeles
- Focus: Held at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, this is the ultimate “cool” boutique fair. It prioritizes intimate gallery-client relationships in a relaxed, non-corporate setting.
- Open Call Detail: While primarily gallery-led, they often have project-based calls for the hotel’s public spaces and poolside installations.
- Deadline: Late 2025 / Early 2026 (Check “Projects” section).
- Website: felixfair.com
6. India Art Fair | Parallel Program & Design
- Focus: South Asia’s leading fair has expanded in 2026 to include a dedicated design and digital wing, making it a “boutique” within a larger event for niche creators.
- Open Call Detail: Look for the “Young Collectors Programme” or the “Digital Residency” which often opens mid-year for the following cycle.
- Website: indiaartfair.in
7. Paris Internationale | Paris
- Focus: Founded by five young galleries as a reaction to the corporate nature of larger fairs, this event focuses on the “next generation” of international talent.
- Open Call Detail: Highly selective; look for the “Curated Section” or collaborative booth applications for independent curators and artists.
- Deadline: May 2026 (For the October edition).
- Website: parisinternationale.com
8. BBA Artist Prize & Exhibition | Berlin
- Focus: Not a traditional fair, but a major boutique exhibition during Berlin Art Week that acts as a primary scouting ground for European galleries.
- Open Call Detail: Annual call for the BBA Artist Prize, which includes a solo show and cash awards.
- Deadline: Rolling; Spring 2026 for Autumn exhibition.
- Website: bba-gallery.com
9. ArtWalk Liberty Station | San Diego
- Focus: A high-end boutique outdoor fair that focuses on drawing, painting, and sculpture. It attracts serious regional collectors looking for the “Mid-Market” sweet spot.
- Open Call Detail: Now accepting applications for the 2026 summer edition.
- Deadline: February 6 – March 2026 (Late applications).
- Website: artwalklibertystation.org
10. Affordable Art Fair | Brussels & Berlin
- Focus: The pioneer of the $1,000–$10,000 market. While mostly gallery-based, their “Recent Graduates” and “Platform” sections are open calls specifically for unrepresented artists.
- Open Call Detail: Specific calls for the Berlin (April) and Brussels (February/Autumn) “Emerging Artist” booths.
- Website: affordableartfair.com
Strategic Note for Artinfoland Readers:
When applying to boutique fairs, your Artist Statement should emphasize how your work fits the fair’s specific theme or narrative. These organizers aren’t just looking for sales; they are looking for a cohesive visual story.
