Ephesus was a city where art was not only produced but celebrated. Ancient sources convey that competitions where artists competed with each other and festivals that brought the public together were held in Ephesus. One of the best-known examples is the sculpture competition depicting the Amazon women warriors. In this competition, where five master sculptors participated, each artist deemed their work as the second-best sculpture, thus Polykleitos’s work was selected as the first. This anecdote highlights the friendly rivalry among artists and the vibrant art scene in Ephesus.

The Artemis festivals were also a significant part of the city's artistic life. During the ceremonies, the statue of the goddess would be carried in festive processions, and theater and music performances were held. These events were not merely religious rituals; they were grand celebrations enriching the city’s social and cultural life. The fact that the Roman Emperor Commodus named these festivals and organized games demonstrates that art was also supported by the state.

Such competitions and festivals provided platforms where artists could showcase their talents and the public could partake in artistic events, thereby creating a shared culture. Therefore, Ephesus became one of the distinguished cities in antiquity where art served as a means of competition, sharing, and social unity.