Emerge 2026 - An Art Competition for Students & Emerging Artists

About the Open Call

For over 30 years, ADC has been dedicated to supporting living artists—and Emerge is the realization of a vision we’ve been building toward for years. Created specifically for students and emerging artists ages 18–25, Emerge is designed to spark momentum, open doors, and help launch the next generation of creative voices. This new regional competition, open to artists in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, and Michigan, offers far more than recognition. Selected works will be featured in an in-person exhibition and opening night inside our stunning 13,000 sq. ft. gallery in Cincinnati’s vibrant Over-the-Rhine district—placing young artists directly into a professional, high-visibility art world setting. Emerge is about opportunity at a pivotal moment. Artists will compete for $5,000 in grants, SmartSell memberships, subject and medium awards, and more—along with invaluable exposure to collectors, industry professionals, and the broader arts community.

What is Offered

$5,000 in grants, SmartSell memberships, subject and medium awards, and exhibition exposure to collectors and industry professionals.

Requirements

Open to artists ages 18-25 who live or attend school in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, or Michigan. All work must be original, available for sale, and must arrive at the gallery by March 16th, 2026.

How to Apply

Apply through the CaFÉ (Call for Entry) online platform by submitting a portfolio of up to four works.