By clicking "Start Submission", you agree to be contacted by the host regarding this opportunity.
By clicking "Start Submission", you agree to be contacted by the host regarding this opportunity.
About
The Singapore International Photography Festival (SIPF) is an international platform which aims to promote the arts and the appreciation of photography arts, as well as critical thought and academic discourse on photography in Southeast Asia. First launched in 2008, SIPF is now one of the major photography platforms held in Southeast Asia. In each biennale edition, SIPF hosts some of the biggest names in photography, uncovers new talents, and promotes an understanding of the world and society through creative photographic expression.
SIPF's Open Call remains a cornerstone festival programme that runs independent of the festival theme. It aims to discover fresh works in the field of image-making and photography from the international arts community. Shortlisted Open Call submissions will be presented in the SIPF Open Call Showcase in the 10th biennale edition of SIPF in Singapore, from mid-October to end-November 2026.
There are two Open Call categories. The Portfolio category is an Open Call for photography and image-based body of works. The Photobook category is an Open Call for both published and dummy photobooks. Applicants must ensure that all submitted photobooks, including dummy books, are fully realised in physical form and available for submission by the stipulated deadlines. Submissions that are incomplete or not production-ready will not be accepted.”
The SIPF Open Call Award is given in recognition of the artistic excellence and originality displayed in shortlisted Open Call submissions. It aims to support and encourage artists in their image-making practice, with cash prizes disbursed to the creators of the submitted works.
SIPF Open Call Award
The SIPF Open Call Award is given in recognition of the artistic excellence and originality displayed in shortlisted Open Call submissions. It aims to support and encourage artists in their image-making practice, with cash prizes disbursed to the creators of the submitted works.
Best Portfolio Award
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SGD$2,000 cash prize
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Selected by the Jury Panel (Portfolio)
Best Published Photobook Award
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SGD$2,000 cash prize
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Selected by the Jury Panel (Photobook)
Best Dummy Photobook Award
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SGD$2,000 cash prize
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Selected by the Jury Panel (Photobook)
Separate from the Open Call Showcase, SIPF will present a section surveying photography from Singapore to mark this milestone edition, reflecting the evolution, breadth and diversity of the local photographic landscape. This survey will include both invited artists and artists selected through the Open Call. Interested and eligible applicants should indicate their interest at the point of application and meet at least one of the following criteria:
- The applicant is a Singapore citizen or Singapore Permanent Resident (PR).
- The applicant is currently based in Singapore or has developed a sustained artistic practice in Singapore.
All submitted works for this section must have been produced between 2000 and 2025 (inclusive). Submissions outside this period will not be considered.
Shortlisted SIPF Open Call Artists
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Shortlisted submissions will be presented in the SIPF Open Call Showcase during the 10th biennale edition of SIPF in Singapore, from mid-October to end-November 2026. The SIPF Open Call Showcase will be curated by SIPF's Festival Curators (to be announced later).
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Recipients of the SIPF Open Call Award for Best Portfolio Award, Best Published Photobook Award, and Best Dummy Photobook Award will be invited to the 10th SIPF Award Ceremony in mid-October 2026 to receive the award presented by the Guest-of-Honour.
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Shortlisted Open Call Artists' profiles and works are highlighted across all SIPF's marketing channels including digital and print collaterals.
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Open Call Artists have the opportunity to actively participate in SIPF's programming, such as Artist Tours and Talks. Travel and accommodation are to be arranged independently by shortlisted artists. Shortlisted artists may propose and be approached by SIPF to conduct public workshops.
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Enjoy discounted fees for participation in SIPF's Portfolio Reviews and Masterclasses, along with complimentary admission to all ticketed festival exhibitions.
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Recognition and exposure to SIPF's network of visual arts professionals, media, and international audiences.
About the organisers
The Singapore International Photography Festival (SIPF) is a biennial gathering of minds from around the world with the common pursuit of advancing the art and appreciation of photography. It aims to be a much-needed arena for critical thought and academic discussion on photography in Southeast Asia.
The SIPF will also function as a key platform to discover, nurture and propel Southeast Asian photographers onto the international stage. Through its associate programmes, the festival hopes to engage the public and cultivate a larger audience. At the core of SIPF is a firm belief that photography can be enjoyed by all.
www.sipf.sg / www.instagram.com/sipfsg/
SIPF is organised by DECK Photography Art Centre Ltd. (UEN 201215478E), a registered Charity and Institution of Public Character in Singapore. DECK is supported by the National Arts Council Singapore under the Major Company Scheme from the period of 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2028.
