access/vsa emerging young artists program

Our programs for artists with disabilities shape the future of the arts. The Access/VSA Emerging Young Artists Program, a Jean Kennedy Smith Arts and Disability Program, amplifies the voices of emerging visual artists through career development and professional empowerment.

This national juried exhibition seeks artwork that demonstrates the excellence and important perspectives of artists with disabilities, ages 16-25, residing in the United States. Fifteen artists each receive a $3,000 award, engage in professional development activities at the Kennedy Center, and have one of their submitted works featured in an exhibition.

2025 Theme: Catalyst

Catalyst asks artists to explore how their art interacts with their disability identity to spark something new.