November brings a fresh range of opportunities for artists, designers, photographers and creative professionals. From international grants to funded residencies and exhibition programmes, several organisations are inviting applications for projects taking place in 2027.

Some deadlines arrive within the first days of the month. Others remain open until the end of November, giving artists more time to prepare their portfolios and proposals.

Here are some opportunities worth exploring this month.

International grants for visual artists

The Hopper Prize is offering a new international grant programme for visual artists working across different media.

Two selected artists will receive $4,500 each, while four additional artists will receive $1,000. The programme also offers exposure through an online journal and a shortlist featuring 30 artists.

Applications are open internationally, and the deadline is 17 November 2026. This could be an interesting opportunity for artists looking for financial support and greater visibility.

Another significant opportunity is the John Ruskin Prize. Its 2026 theme, Not for Present Delight, encourages artists, designers and makers to consider the wider purpose and consequences of creative work.

Five winners will share prizes totalling £10,000. Selected work will also appear in an exhibition at Trinity Buoy Wharf in London. Applications close on 17 November.

Residencies offering space to develop new work

Artist residencies can provide valuable time, space and opportunities to connect with other creative people.

In Toronto, Gladstone House is accepting applications for its 2027 Artist Residency programme. The opportunity offers three-month studio placements for visual artists and craftspeople.

There is no fee for using the studio. Artists must commit to working there for at least two full days or four half-days each week. They are also expected to engage with hotel visitors and contribute to its arts programme.

The application deadline is 1 November 2026, with selected artists expected to hear back in early December. The programme is aimed at local and regional artists, and accommodation or a stipend is not included.

International artists may also want to explore the Jan van Eyck Academie residency programme for 2028. It welcomes artists, designers, architects, writers, curators and researchers.

The 11-month programme offers studio space, housing and a monthly stipend of €1,500. Applications close on 30 November 2026.

Opportunities for photographers and animators

Photography and animation also feature in this month’s selection.

Vital Impacts is offering environmental photography fellowships and mentorships for photographers working on compelling stories about the natural world.

The programme includes one $20,000 fellowship and six awards of $5,000. It also plans to select ten emerging photographers for an intensive mentorship programme.

Applications close on 30 November 2026.

For animation students, the MAKE Animation Thesis Grants provide financial support for original animated thesis projects. The awards include $2,000 for first place, $1,000 for second place and $500 for third place.

The deadline is 6 November 2026.

More open calls to consider

Artists working in different disciplines can also explore several additional opportunities:

• ArtFields Festival 2027: Artists can submit work for an exhibition in Lake City, South Carolina, with more than $100,000 in potential cash prizes. Deadline: 1 November.
• International Art Frontier: An international competition offering exhibition opportunities in Venice and four €1,000 prizes. Deadline: 4 November.
• Arch Enemy Arts: An international call for artists interested in a group exhibition in January 2027. Deadline: 13 November.
• 2027 Beam Camp Project: A public art opportunity offering a $5,000 award to the selected project proposer, alongside a fabrication budget. Deadline: 30 November.

Each programme has its own application requirements, eligibility rules and fees. Artists should review the official information before submitting their work.

Preparing a strong application

A successful application usually requires more than a collection of images.

Artists should prepare a clear portfolio, a short biography and an artist statement explaining their practice. Some opportunities also request a project proposal, work plan or examples of previous exhibitions.

It is equally important to check whether an opportunity provides funding, studio space, accommodation or only professional exposure. These details can make a significant difference when planning a project.

November 2026 offers a varied selection of opportunities for creative professionals at different stages of their careers. Whether the goal is to secure funding, develop a new body of work or reach an international audience, these open calls provide several possible starting points.