Everson Museum of Art CNY Artist Initiative 2026

The Central New York Artist Initiative is an annual competitive program launched by the Everson Museum of Art that highlights the multi-faceted talents of regional artists. Everson curators select artists to display their work in solo exhibitions at the Museum. Selections are based on the innovative quality of the work, how the work aligns with the Museum mission, and its relevance to the community. Artists selected this year will show their work in exhibitions in 2026.

CNY Artist Initiative exhibitions run for six to eight weeks and are displayed in the Museum's Members' Council Gallery, which measures 18 by 32.75 feet; proposed work must fit within this space. Applicants must live and work within a 75-mile radius of Syracuse, New York. All applications must include an artist statement, resume or CV, and 20 images of artwork with title, date, medium, and dimensions for each work.

Submission portal opens July 12, 2025 and closes September 13, 2025. Notification of decisions will be emailed to applicants in October 2025, with public announcement of selected artists in November 2025. Direct questions about the CNY Artist Initiative to [email protected] with "Everson CNY Artist Initiative" in the subject line.