SFWA Open Calls for Art
Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association seeks visual artists for cover art and publication illustrations. Paid opportunities, portfolio-based submissions.
The Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association (SFWA) is actively seeking talented visual artists to contribute artwork for several publications and projects. While SFWA is primarily a writers' organization, they actively support and commission work from visual artists. No SFWA membership is required to submit.
Currently, three open calls are available:
1. NEBULA SHOWCASE: A full-color, wrap-around cover piece is needed. The selected artwork will receive non-exclusive usage rights for all editions of the Nebula Showcase volume, plus rights for marketing and promotional use. The 2026 Grandmaster is N.K. Jemisin, and artists are encouraged to create pieces inspired by this honoree's work.
2. ANNUAL REPORT: A full-color illustration suitable for an 8.5x11 page with cover text is required. Non-exclusive usage rights are granted, along with rights for marketing and promotional efforts related to the publication.
3. GAMES & COMICS QUARTERLY: A full-color illustration fitting an 8.5x11 page with cover text is needed. The publication releases quarterly, so accepted work will be published within one year of acceptance. Artwork should relate to comics or games (digital or analog). Non-exclusive usage rights and marketing/promotional rights are included.
All submissions must include a portfolio of three samples plus a link to your main webpage if applicable. SFWA prefers original work but will consider existing work if it strongly fits the thematic requirements. All works should have a science fiction and/or fantasy focus. Content with explicit sexual material, gore, or detailed violence will not be considered. SFWA actively encourages artists from marginalized backgrounds and identities to apply, emphasizing that these are paid opportunities and artists should not self-reject.