With the aim of promoting the communication of artists from different countries and pushing the art of watercolor forward, the government of Shenzhen (South China) is sponsoring the Shenzhen International Watercolor Biennial as a non-profit international academic exhibition.

The exhibition advocates diversified development of watercolor, encourages up-to-date trial, exploration and innovation. It is also a platform for watercolor exchange between China and the world.

Paintings must be primarily water-based media on a paper surface and unvarnished (Yupo is permitted), including transparent watercolor, gouache, acrylic, egg tempera and water-based composite media. Other media, if used, must be in conjunction with the water media. The water media must be at least 80%.

No digital media, photography, prints or reproductions may be used anywhere in the painting. Work must have been completed within the last three years. No more than two images can be submitted per entrant. No side has to be more than 110cm (approx. 43”) and less than 35cm (approx. 14”).

All work must be for sale (organizer will retain a 30% commission).

There is no entry fee.

Eligibility

Open to all artists who are 18 years or older, amateur and professional, from all nations.

Prize

A Jury composed by internationally recognized watercolor masters will award a total of over 80,000 USD in purchase, cash and merchandise.

There will be also a high-quality full color album 28×28cm (11”×11”,one painting on full page) of accepted works. Everyone whose paintings are selected will get one.

Moreover, 180-200 paintings will be selected to enter the Biennial in Shenzhen Art Museum (December 5, 2015 - January 10, 2016) and 150 paintings will be chosen for a six-city national Traveling Exhibition.