Here are some Frequently Asked Questions to help you complete your application.
Q: Can I submit works that are examples of previous commissions? My work sells quickly and I’d be happy to make you what you want.
A: No, only work that is already created and available for purchase will be considered by the jury. In addition, works costing more than $4,000 will not be considered. The cost of framing should be included in your valuation of the work you submit.
Q: I’m still working on my piece; but I have until 9:59PM on March 1, 2013, right?
A: Yes, BUT, DO NOT WAIT UNTIL UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE TO SUBMIT! Technology can be fickle and unreliable, and we will not be available to provide technical support to you after 4:00 p.m. on March 1st. If your entry is incomplete and unable to be submitted, the CaFE system will let you know by displaying an error message, which will allow you to address any issues and submit. You will receive a confirmation email after successfully submitting your application through the system. We strongly encourage you to apply early, as it allows ASCA staff time to review your application, catch any problems and then work with you to correct them.
Q: What if I want to enter this piece in other CaFE calls?
A: One of the reasons we use CaFE is to provide you with a platform to quickly and easily apply for other calls and opportunities. So, yes, we encourage you to submit your pieces to other calls! (Please note, however, that if your piece is selected for the Alaska Contemporary Art Bank you may need to contact the other calls you apply to and let them know that the piece is no longer available for purchase.) Once you have entered your artworks into CaFE, you can use them as many times you like for any or all calls listed in the system. If you need to make changes to your image’s descriptive information, you can simply create a copy of the image in your “My Portfolio” section of CaFE, rename the image, update the information and then use it for other calls. You can upload up to 100 images in your CaFE profile.
Q: I take pretty good photographs. What do you mean by a high-quality photograph?
A: We strongly encourage you to work with a professional photographer to document your work. A high-quality photograph will clearly represent your artwork to the jury. A photograph taken in less than ideal conditions will detract from the display of your work. Many artists hire a professional photographer, partly because photographers know what to look for when documenting artwork. A professional photographer should provide you with very high-resolution raw files, which you should keep for your archives. They can also usually provide images that are formatted to CaFE’s image specifications (1920 pixels on the longest side). If you still want to do it yourself, please consider background, cropping, lighting, image distortion and focus.This call will be highly competitive, so do everything you can to show your work in the best manner!
Click here to read about CaFE’s requirements for images requirements. You can also search online for tutorials on how to photograph artwork, and tips for non-photographers.
Q: I think my canvases look better with a gallery wrap (painted edges). Must I have them framed?
A: Yes. These works travel a lot, and our experience has been that gallery-wrapped works are not as durable as framed work, because the frame serves to protect the work. Please include the cost of framing in your price. Textiles do not need a rigid framing system, but should have a hanging system. Your entry images should not include your matting or frame, unless you feel it is integral to the work itself.
Q: Must I submit my work online? Can’t I bring it to the Alaska State Council on the Arts or email images for consideration?
A: You must submit your work online through CaFE. Not only does this system allow us to work with artists from all over the state of Alaska, it is the system by which the statewide jury will be able to review your work. If you are having difficulty with the online system, please contact us well in advance of the deadline and we will assist you in understanding the process. Click here for an introduction to the Call for Art and an overview of how to create a profile on CaFE.
Do you have other questions? If so, contact Janelle at Janelle.matz@alaska.gov – but please don’t wait until the last day of the call!