Emerge 2026 - An Art Competition for Students & Emerging Artists

Emerge 2026 is a regional art competition created specifically for students and emerging artists ages 18–25. Open to artists living or attending school in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, and Michigan, the competition offers far more than recognition. Selected works will be featured in an in-person exhibition and opening night inside ADC's 13,000 sq. ft. gallery in Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine district.

Artists will compete for $5,000 in grants, SmartSell memberships, subject and medium awards, and more, along with exposure to collectors, industry professionals, and the broader arts community. All sizes, mediums, and subjects are welcome, including paintings, drawings, mixed media, abstract, realism, sculpture, glass, metal, installation, and conceptual works. Artists are encouraged to enter a portfolio of four works.

Entry fee is $35.00 for up to four pieces. Submissions require 1–4 images. The entry deadline is March 5, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Jury dates are March 6–9, 2026. The exhibition runs March 27–April 17, 2026. For questions, contact [email protected].