VSA Emerging Young Artists 2023: Interchange

The VSA Emerging Young Artists Program, a Jean Kennedy Smith Arts and Disability Program, showcases the work of visual artists with disabilities, ages 16-25, who reside in the United States. This 2023 call invites artists to explore the "Interchange" theme: the connection of different ideas and pathways to each other. How does your art interact with your disability identity and the world? How are you initiating dialogue with others?

Fifteen winning artists will be selected by a jury of experts. Each winning artist receives a $5,000 award and has one submitted piece selected to travel in a year-long national exhibition. Winning artists are required to attend an all-expenses-paid professional development workshop at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., February 26-29, 2024. Artwork will be judged on demonstration of high skill level, original ideas, and reflection of the Interchange theme.

Eligibility: Artists must be 16-25 years old on August 18, 2023; reside in the United States (including territories); have a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act and be comfortable publicly identifying as an artist with a disability; and be available for the February 26-29, 2024 workshop. Submitted artwork must be completed within the last 3 years and after the onset of disability. All art forms and media are eligible. 2-Dimensional artwork cannot exceed 60 inches in height or width; 3-Dimensional artwork cannot exceed 48 inches in any direction when packed for shipping. Artwork must be able to withstand handling, storage, and transportation for a year-long tour. Submit images or videos of at least three pieces and answer four application questions (300 words each). Winning artists will be notified by September 29, 2023. To request accommodations or alternate format materials, contact Wynsor Taylor at [email protected] no later than August 4, 2023.