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Annual International
Open Exhibition


The NWWS Annual International Open Exhibition is the most notable juried exhibition sponsored by NWWS. Each year, a carefully chosen esteemed juror curates the exhibition, selecting outstanding work from across the U.S. and internationally. Painters in water media, including watercolor, acrylic, gouache, egg tempera, and mixed media are eligible to enter the Open Exhibition. The exhibition has grown tremendously in size and reputation since its inception in 1940, with annual awards in 2025 to be above $13,000 in cash and merchandise.

This annual exhibition publishes the prospectus and begins accepting entries in May of each year. The entry period is about 60 days. Subscribe to our promotional emails by creating a free account to learn details and dates, or check this page in the spring.

2025 ACCEPTED ARTISTS
2025 Prospectus
About the Purchase Award
AWARDS RECEPTION VIDEOS
FAQS
Why can’t I paint from magazine photos or photos I’ve purchased?
There are many skills used and decisions made when one creates a painting, with the selection of subject matter being one of the first. An original painting includes originality of inspiration and is not borrowed from someone else’s photograph. Read a larger article about this topic here: Understanding Originality for Exhibitions
When and how will I know if my painting has been accepted?
Look at the “important dates” in the prospectus and find the date that the accepted entries will be posted on the website. If your name is on the accepted entries list on the website on that date, you will also be sent an acceptance package through email with additional information. Only those who are accepted are specially notified.
How do I increase my chances for being accepted into an exhibition?

NWWS seeks out the best, most respected jurors to curate exhibitions. While each juror has personal criteria, each knows that the most successful exhibitions are a balance of subject matter and style while showcasing the most worthy paintings. This article, written by NWWS member Sarah Love, provides insight into the jury process. How to Get into a Juried Show: Tips from Six Well Known Jurors.

What are framing guidelines that will enhance a painting?
Paintings sold during an NWWS online-only exhibition are sold at the unframed price. When a painting is sold as an unframed piece, the buyer may request that the artist provide the piece framed and ready to hang. Framing costs are additional, and the artist coordinates and receives payment for framing directly from the buyer. These guidelines will assist both artist and buyer in making the esthetic decisions that will provide a professional appearance that enhances the painting and meets the buyer’s budget.

  • MATERIALS – Choose framing, mounting, and matting materials that are archival to protect the buyer’s investment.
  • FRAMING A PAINTING WITHOUT GLASS – Paintings framed without glass should always have a protective sealant and/or varnish and be mounted on a rigid substrate to help prevent puncture damage. Ensure that all the edges are tight to the substrate.
  • FRAMING WITH GLASS – NWWS recommends shipped paintings be framed using plexiglass. A painting being hand-delivered might have either glass or plexiglass, depending on the client’s preference.
  • MATTING – A 2” minimum mat is recommended, with a wider mat likely being a better choice. White or nearly white is best. Some “white” mat colors will enhance the painting more than others. You may choose to add a double mat, with the inner mat being no more than 1/4” and of any color that complements the painting. Avoid wide, colored mats.
  • FRAMING PROFILE – A simple profile is suggested; however, your client may prefer something specific. Some frame designs and color will complement the painting better than others.
  • INSPECT – Before shipping the framed painting, inspect it to ensure there is no damage or any surface marring.