Artist Opportunities

  • Requirements

    • Must represent the theme of “Reel City Life”, meaning about a person or place in the Bridgeport community. 

    • Video must be no longer than 3 minutes. 

    • Video must be vertical in the 9:16 aspect ratio. 

    • Video must have frame rates between 30 FPS and 60 FPS. 

    • If including music, it must be original or royalty free. 


    Get ready to unleash your creativity at our 2025 Bridgeport Film Fest with the electrifying TikTok Challenge! As we celebrate five incredible years, we’re inviting filmmakers, students, community activists and professionals to craft captivating short videos—up to three minutes long—under the vibrant theme of “Reel City Life.”

    This is your chance to shine on a platform that resonates with today’s youth and to tell stories that reflect the diverse tapestry of our local Bridgeport community. Whether you're a seasoned storyteller or just starting out, this challenge is all about amplifying fresh voices, unique perspectives and helping to change the narrative of Bridgeport.

    To sweeten the deal, we’re offering exciting cash prizes! And not only will you have the opportunity to showcase your talent, but if selected you'll also be part of an inspiring festival atmosphere that celebrates creativity and connection. Imagine your work resonating with others while you engage with fellow storytellers who share your passion and want to uplift their community by changing the narrative!

  • Upload submissions to FilmFreeway through the Bridgeport Film Fest website here.

  • City Lights Gallery seeks art inspired by the Bridgeport power plant smoke stack, to produce a farewell exhibit for the iconic structure. Please send paintings, photographs, sculptures, clothing, apparel , graphic designs and memorabilia inspired by the industrial candy cane, the visual metaphor for Bridgeport’s unique grit and creativity. Regretfully it will be demolished this fall.

  • SEND SUBMISSIONS IN JPEG FORMAT, (no more than 6 images), 72 DPI, DUE BY AUGUST 9, 2025 to: clgallerybpt@gmail.com

    Notification will be sent by email on August 11, 2025.

    Chosen work can be dropped off at City Lights 265 Golden Hill St, Bridgeport CT, during gallery hours, from 12-4 pm on Weds-Sat August 13-16. Exhibit reception Saturday August 23, 2025, 3:30-6 pm. Exhibit runs August 20 - September 12, 2025.

  • City Lights Gallery seeks submissions of masks or mask related art for consideration for  the exhibit Mascera. The deadline for submission is August 23, 2025.

  • PLEASE SEND SUBMISSIONS IN JPEG FORMAT, (no more than 8 images), 72 DPI, DUE BY  AUGUST 23, 2025, to: clgallerybpt@gmail.com 

    Use “MASCERA Submission” in the subject title. 

    Notification will be sent by email on August 30, 2025. 

    Chosen work can be dropped off at City Lights 265 Golden Hill St, Bridgeport CT, during gallery hours, from 12-4 pm on Fri/Sat September 5,6 and W-F, September 10-12. 

    NECESSARY INFO TO INCLUDE WITH SUBMISSION: Brief artists statement, itemized list of  art submitted should include title, size, medium, price of work, Works not for sale should  include a value rather than a price. Also include artist’s contact info: name, email, phone  (evening and daytime numbers), mailing address and website if available. 

    City Lights is a nonprofit arts organization located in downtown Bridgeport CT. that serves  the community through art, easily accessible by Metro-North, Port Jeff Ferry, I-95 and the  Merritt Parkway via Route 25 Connector. There is no size limit to the dimension of art submitted, however larger works, over 60″ will be subject to space limitations.