Open Access: Exploring 130 Years of American Design

About the Open Call

Van Alen invites emerging designers and creatives of all disciplines to delve into the currently accessible portions of our archive and consider its material through the lens of open and fair access. We are seeking project proposals that provoke deep reflection on how the pursuit of greater access to design can and must progress into the future. Five projects will be selected for an exhibition at Van Alen's Urban Room.

What is Offered

$3,000 honorarium, curatorial and archival support, mentorship, and inclusion in a public-facing exhibition.

Requirements

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, authorized to work in the US, available for hybrid check-ins between July and November 2026, and commit to delivering exhibition-ready work. Submit project proposal, portfolio/work samples, artist statement, and optional public programming proposal via Airtable.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted electronically via Airtable.