Light & Shadow by Curatone 2026 is the kind of theme that can turn a familiar subject into something quietly dramatic, just by changing where the light falls. This curated international art show invites photographers to explore contrast as more than a style choice, using brightness and darkness to shape mood, reveal detail, or build a story that lives between what is shown and what is withheld. The deadline is January 18, 2026, with finalists and the winner scheduled to be published on January 26, 2026.
One Grand Prize winner receives $100 and the selected group is featured in a digital exhibition catalog, with official diplomas for finalists and the winner. Curatone also notes media exposure on its website and social channels for selected artists. For photographers browsing Deartline to find best photo challenges online, this call is defined by its clear theme, fast turnaround, and the emphasis on curated selection rather than a long list of category rules.
Entries are paid and limited to three artworks per author, submitted as JPEG files. That makes it a practical fit for photographers who want to send a tight edit, whether the work leans toward black and white photography aesthetics, a more conceptual approach, or a fine art series built around atmosphere. The jury review is planned to take place within one week after the deadline, which helps entrants understand when decisions are likely to happen.
Contents
The Light & Shadow by Curatone Prizes
The primary reward for this Light & Shadow by Curatone is professional exposure through a curated online exhibition. Selected artists will have their work featured on the Curatone website which serves as a digital gallery accessible to collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide. The gallery actively promotes the exhibition through its social media channels and newsletters.
The specific awards include:
- Grand Prize: The winner will receive a cash prize of $100.
- Exhibition: All finalists and the winner will be published on the gallery website.
- Diplomas: All finalists and the winner will receive official digital diplomas.
- Protocol Extract: Participants will receive an extract from the contest protocol with jury evaluations.
Related Photo Contests
The Categories of Light & Shadow by Curatone
This competition revolves around a single fundamental theme: Light & Shadow. There are no restrictive sub-categories which allows artists the freedom to interpret the theme in a way that suits their personal style. The organizers welcome both representational and abstract approaches.
Photographers can submit dramatic black and white entries where contrast is key. The theme is also perfect for street photography shots that play with hard sunlight and deep shadows in urban environments. You might enter portrait work that uses chiaroscuro lighting to create mood and depth. Even abstract submissions that focus purely on the geometry of light are encouraged. All 2D visual art mediums are accepted including photography, digital art, painting and mixed media.
Light & Shadow by Curatone Dates and Entry Fees
Key Dates:
| Early Bird Deadline | January 10, 2026 |
| Final Submission Deadline | January 18, 2026 |
| Results Announcement | January 26, 2026 |
Entry Costs:
- Early Bird Price: $15 (until January 10, 2026).
- Last Minute Price: $22 (until January 18, 2026).
Each application allows for a maximum of 3 artworks per author.
How to Enter:
Submissions are accepted exclusively through the Curatone website. Entrants must fill out the online submission form and upload their digital files. Images should be in JPEG format and must not exceed 4MB in size. The image should be clear and in focus as it will be displayed and judged exactly as received.
About the Jury
The judging is conducted by a distinguished panel of art world professionals. This includes award-winning artists, curators, art directors and jurors of international competitions. The evaluation criteria focus on the originality of the idea and artistic vision, the quality of execution and the relevance to the contest theme “Light & Shadow.”
Why Enter Light & Shadow by Curatone?
In the digital age having an online presence is crucial for any artist. This competition is one of the photography challenges to join online for building that presence without the logistical headaches of physical shipping. The gallery handles the presentation and promotion allowing you to focus on creating.
Furthermore winning or receiving an honorable mention adds a validated credit to your CV. Being part of a curated group exhibition demonstrates that your work has been vetted by professionals which can be a stepping stone to further opportunities in the art world.
Rules and Copyright
This section about the rules and image rights of the Light & Shadow by Curatone 2026 has been generated automatically. If you are interested in participating in this contest we suggest you review the complete rules provided by the contest.
Copyright and Usage:
Artists retain full ownership and copyright of their work. By entering you grant Curatone.art the right to use the submitted images for promotional purposes including on their website, social media channels and in online exhibitions. The gallery will not sell or reproduce any artwork without explicit written permission.
Eligibility:
The competition is open to artists of all mediums and styles worldwide. All submitted artworks must be original and created by the participant.
For more information and to participate in the contest, visit: the official website.
