access/vsa emerging young artists program

We Hold These Truths Theme
This call for art asks artists to explore how the truths that they hold dear engage with their disability and artistic identities. 

About Access/VSA Emerging Young Artists Program
The Access/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.

The content of this program was developed under grant H421F240164 from the U.S. Department of Education (Department). The Department does not mandate or prescribe practices, models, or other activities described or discussed in this program. The content of this program may contain examples of, adaptations of, and links to resources created and maintained by another public or private organization. The Department does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. The content of this program does not necessarily represent the policy of the Department. This program is not intended to represent the views or policy of or be an endorsement of any views expressed or materials provided by any Federal agency. (EDGAR 75.620)

Other Requirements

• Submitted artwork must be completed within the last 3 years, and after the onset of disability.

• Previous Emerging Young Artist Program award winners are not eligible to apply.

• Submitted artwork must be able to withstand handling, storage, and transportation to/from Washington, D.C.

• Artwork containing perishable materials, such as food, will not be considered.

• 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.

• All visual art forms and media are eligible if adhering to the listed requirements.

• Applicant must be the sole creator and owner of all artwork submitted. Group projects will not be considered.

• Work that suggests visual plagiarism, such as direct copy of another artist's work, will not be considered.

• Winning artists must participate in the entirety of the professional development activities: virtually (January 31, February 14, February 28) and in-person in Washington, D.C. March 10-14, 2026 to receive their financial stipend.

Note: Artists must submit images of multiple works of art rather than multiple views of a single work of art. Jurors will be looking at the quality and scope of the submitted portfolio of artwork as a whole.