VSA Emerging Young Artists Program – 2026 "We Hold These Truths"

The Access/VSA Emerging Young Artists Program, a Jean Kennedy Smith Arts and Disability Program administered by The Kennedy Center, invites emerging visual artists with disabilities, ages 16‑25, who reside in the United States to submit original artwork for its 2026 edition titled “We Hold These Truths.” Fifteen selected artists will each receive a $3,000 financial stipend, participate in professional‑development activities, and have their work featured in a national touring exhibition. The program aims to amplify the voices of artists with disabilities, providing career‑development resources and public exposure. Applications are submitted online through the program’s portal, and the deadline for the 2026 cycle is November 19, 2026. No application fee is required.

Professional development workshops at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

Artist must be between the ages of 16 and 25 on February 28, 2025 at 11:59 pm Mountain Time (MT). Artist must reside in the United States. Artist must have a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Artist must be comfortable publicly identifying as an artist with a disability.