Photography Contest

Behind the Mask

Deadline |

03/04/26

Theme |

Behind the Mask

Territory |

Worldwide

Eligibility |

Open to all

Entry Fees |

$18/2 images

Prizes |

Exhibition
Some stories are told straight on.
Others live in what we hide, protect, or carefully curate for the world.
Behind the Mask invites you to explore hidden selves, layered identities, private emotions, and the line between what is revealed and what stays concealed.
Selected artworks are gathered into a curated online collection with your name, artwork title, and website link, giving you a polished, shareable feature that lasts beyond results day.

Key dates:
1st entry free until: December 20, 2025
Deadline to enter: March 4, 2026
Results emailed: March 18, 2026

Entry fee:
Your 1st image is FREE if you submit by December 20, 2025.
After the free-entry window, pricing is tiered by the number of images included in the same application: 2 images is $18, 3 images is $25, 4 images is $36, 5 images is $45, and 6 to 10 images is $55.
(One free entry per artist per monthly challenge.)

How to enter + image specs:
Start with your free entry, then add additional images within the same application if you want.
Upload JPG/PNG files under the posted size limits, with a minimum 2000 px on the longest side.
Complete the form with your artist details, artwork titles, and mediums, then submit and check your email for confirmation.

Judging criteria:
Craftsmanship, presentation, interpretation of the theme, composition, creativity, and technical skill.

Apply here:
https://tenmoirgallery.com/behind-the-mask-art-competition/

Prizes:

Awards + recognition:
Best in Show: $150 cash award, artist interview, The Moir mini spotlight feature, homepage feature, plus a free Blue Sky Artist Award entry
Runner Ups (Traditional & Photography): website feature, dedicated social media post, Art Journal mini spotlight, plus a free Blue Sky entry
Finalists (Top 15 to 20): permanent listing, digital certificate, social highlights
All Selected Artists: listed on the curated collection page with artist name, artwork title, and link
Shareable assets: badges and certificates for your website and socials

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