Envision 2027: The Michigan Artists Initiative

Stamps Gallery, part of the Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design at U-M, invites Michigan artists and collaboratives to submit their work for a new initiative showcasing the depth of artistic excellence and merit of contemporary art practices in our state.

A shortlist of three artists will be selected by a prominent national panel of jurors: Rehema Barber, chief curator, Kalamazoo Institute of Art; Laura Mott, chief curator, Cranbrook Art Museum; and artist Sara Nickleson, winner of the 2025 Envision: Michigan Artist Initiative Award.

Those finalists will be invited to participate in a group exhibition at Stamps Gallery from June 10 to July 31, 2027, with logistical and curatorial support provided by the Gallery’s professional staff, as well as an artist fee and stipend to produce new work. The jury will select a winner who will be awarded a $5,000 cash prize.

The initiative is open to emerging and mid-career artists and collaboratives living and working in Michigan. Artists must be at least 21 years old and not be enrolled in a University program at an undergraduate or graduate level. All submitted works must be original and produced within the last five calendar years. There is no fee to apply. Submissions in all media are welcome. See application page for full eligibility requirements.