THE CONCEPT

“Every piece of art tells a story made up of emotions, memories and experiences that are part of the lived of each artist”.

The art exhibition STORIES OF IDENTITY – The 3rd Edition 2026 aims to observe, analyze, and share the stories behind artworks, with the goal of creating a visual narrative, a continuous story in images in constant dialogue with the visitor. Each artwork tells a story composed of emotions, memories, traditions, cultures, and experiences that are part of each artist’s personal journey. 

Therefore, artists will be invited to tell their own stories, exploring their identity from psychological, social, and cultural perspectives, starting from the most hidden corners of their soul and touching upon everyday life. 

All selected works will be stories of identity, capable of confronting and engaging with the changes of the contemporary world, absorbing its influence while preserving their own uniqueness. The exhibition will provide an opportunity to connect stories, communities, and territories, with the city of Lecce acting as a crossroads to experiment with new models of artistic, cultural, and social dialogue.

HOW TO APPLY

Who Can Apply
Artists and collectives, both Italian and international, working in painting, photography, sculpture, installation and performance.

Submission guidelines
Applicants should provide:
1. Artist statement / biography (max 250 words).
2. Artwork description (max 300 words), including title, year, medium, dimensions, and any technical/logistical requirements.
3. Visual or video documentation of the performance (high-resolution images, video links or digital files).
4. Portfolio or website link (if available).

Artists may be sponsored or supported by institutions, organizations, governments, or representatives. Sponsor logos will be included in all exhibition communication (digital and print).

Deadline for applications
September 21, 2026 (11:59 PM – your local time)
Submissions must be sent to:
carmelaloiacono.arthistorian@gmail.com 

Selection process
Proposals must reflect the central theme of the exhibition.

The submission proposal is free.
A participation fee is required only for selected artists. The fee will be communicated after selection and it will depend on the size of the selected works.
The participation for performance art is free during the opening of the exhibition. (All the details and methods will be discussed after the selection process).

Participation Fee Covers

• Logistics management of the exhibition by the curator. 
• Rental costs of the exhibition venue.
• Mounting and dismounting of all artworks for the exhibition.
• Assistance with customs formalities, international shipping and local transport.
• Assistance in finding accommodation and/or city experiences.
• Design and printing of posters, flyers and labels.
• Certificates of participation for each artist selected in pdf format. 
• Dedicated post/article for each artist selected with interview and artworks published on website and social media. 
• Global and local press office, press, banners, etc., advertising on local and national art websites, and social media, etc.
• Realization of the exhibition page and dedicated press office.
• Exhibitions opening ceremony.

The participation fee will be paid ONLY upon selection. Payment details will be shared privately with selected artists.

The Shipment
Artists are responsible for shipping their works to and from the exhibition venue. Detailed instructions will be provided after selection.

Deadline for applications is September 21, 2026 (11.59 PM your local time)

For further information or inquiries, please contact me by e-mail or by message on Instagram.