Q: Where do I submit items for the IOC Call Jury?
A: Watermark is using an online third-party contest software called “Zealous” for 2023 submissions. You can read the prospectus on our website now or go straight to the application from the prospectus page when it opens.

Q: How does Zealous work?
A: When you follow the link to the IOC application page, you will be asked to create a free account or log into an existing account. Please enter your first and last name, and email. Create a password. If asked, your “role” is “Clay Artist”. The contest category is “clay”.

It is not necessary for you to enter any more information if you don’t want to. You can read their terms, usage and privacy policy links on their website.

You know you are in the right place when you choose Watermark Art Center’s “Call for Work – It’s Only Clay 2023” and you see our cover image and description/prospectus. The cover image will follow you around through the Zealous application.

Q: Is it safe?
A : Zealous helps keep your information safe by running your payments through Stripe to our bank account. Watermark never sees your payment information.

Q: What can I do if I make a mistake?
A: Up until the application deadline passes, Zealous will allow you to log in and swap photos, description, titles, dimensions, and retail price. If you save an entry as a draft, you can delete it. Anything in draft mode when the application deadline passes will not be entered for Jury.

Make sure you select American Inches and Pounds. Weight is not important for IOC, but the form requests it – just guess!

Q: Explain blind judging:
A: Zealous hides your personal information from the Jury. Make sure to enter the correct titles for your pieces with no personal information included.

The name of your image file will be automatically upload into the “Title” field as the default name of your piece. Please modify this field to be the actual title of your clay item.

Q: I have more than one piece. How does that work?
A: Zealous will ask you when you finish your first submission, if you want to submit another item. You will be asked to supply your item information and Zealous will retain your contact information.

Q: Can I get my money returned if I want to withdraw from the competition?
A: You can save each submission as a draft. You have until the submission deadline to alter draft items or update/swap previously submitted/paid items. However, once you pay a fee through Zealous, your fee will not be returned.

Q: Does Zealous have any tutorials out there?
A: Yes. Applicants are considered “Talent” or “Creators and applications are considered “Opportunities”.  Start Here →

Q: Help! I’m so bad with computers. Can you help me?
A: This year, and likely into the future, IOC will only accept online applications and payment. Therefore, it’s best if you work through the application and save everything in draft mode before you submit payment. Please contact Watermark if you have any issues and we’ll see what we can do to help you complete your online application.