Why Do You Create? 2026
What inspires your art-making practice? What brings meaning to your creative process?
Visual Arts Mississauga (VAM) invites artists to reflect on these questions and more in its sixth annual Why Do You Create? juried exhibition.
Up to 50 artworks will be selected for display.
25 selected works will be exhibited in the VAM Gallery (Jan 12 – Feb 8, 2026).
Additional selected works will be displayed in the White Studio Gallery (Jan 23 – 25, 2026).
All chosen artworks will be featured in an online exhibition from Jan 12 – 2027 WDYC show
All participating artists are eligible for awards:
- 🏆 First Prize: $600
- 🥈 Second Prize: $400
- 🥉 Third Prize: $300
- ⭐ 2 Honourable Mentions: $50 each
- 🗳️ People’s Choice Award: VAM Merch & Membership
Entry fee: $35 +HST
VAM Member Discount: $25+HST
Deadline: November 30th
Apply Here
VAM Member Show – I Love Riverwood
VAM invites artists to share artwork inspired by nature found on their visits in Riverwood Park.
Submissions due Thursday, November 13.
Artwork drop off Wednesday, November 19 to Saturday, November 22 from 10am-2pm
Artwork pick up Monday, December 15 to Wednesday, December 17 from 2-4pm
Please fill out a submission form per exhibition – one entry per artists per exhibition
Whether it was a walk at Riverwood, a captured floral, or even the barn, share how Riverwood inspires your work!
Exhibition space is limited to the first 25-35 pieces submitted, depending on artwork size.
The Exhibits will be on display in The VAM Gallery for the duration of the show. For more information, please contact exhibits@visualartsmississauga.com
THIS SHOW IS FREE TO ALL ACTIVE VAM MEMBERS.
To Purchase a Membership, visit: Here