Long Island’s Best 2026

About the Open Call

2026 marks the 30th anniversary of this renowned arts-in-education initiative for Long Island high school students at The Heckscher Museum of Art. Students submit artwork inspired by specific pieces in the Museum's collection. Accepted media includes painting, drawing, collage, printmaking, photography, computer graphics, sculpture, mixed media, fashion, and video artwork.

What is Offered

Selected artwork will be exhibited at the Heckscher Museum of Art. Numerous awards will be given, including certificates of exhibition, indoor banners for winners' schools, and potential features in the Museum’s Digital Guide on Bloomberg Connects.

Requirements

Open to Long Island high school students. Artworks must be created during the 2025-2026 school year. Students must select an 'Inspiration Artwork' from designated Museum exhibits or collection selections. Each student may submit only one work of art. Collaborative pieces are welcome but count as the school's entry limit.

How to Apply

Students must create a username and password on ShowSubmit to log in and apply. The entry must include student and teacher contact information, artwork details, and an artist statement between 75 and 250 words explaining the inspiration from the Museum's collection. Schools must have registered and paid an $85 fee by October 24, 2025, to participate.