NextGen 13.0

VisArts NextGen 13.0 Exhibition Free, Open Call for Submissions

VisArts invites emerging artists ages 17–27 from the DC, Maryland, and Virginia region to apply for NextGen 13.0, our annual exhibition spotlighting new and developing voices. The exhibition will be presented in the Gibbs Street Gallery from March 27–May 10, 2026.

Designed especially for artists with little or no prior exhibition experience, NextGen 13.0 offers a rare chance to present work in a professional gallery setting while engaging in a robust slate of supportive programming. Selected artists will participate in an opening reception, artist talks, and conversations with fellow emerging artists, as well as critiques and professional development sessions led by local curators and arts administrators who actively work with young artists.

Artists who previously participated in NextGen are not eligible to apply. However, applicants who were not selected in past years are encouraged to reapply.

Application Deadline

Wednesday, March 11, 2026   All application materials must be submitted online through our Submittable portal by 11:59 PM (EST).

• Incomplete applications will not be reviewed
• Submission does not guarantee acceptance
• Selected artists will be notified by March 13, 2026

Questions

Email M. Aragon, Exhibition Programming Manager Subject line: VisArts NextGen 13.0 Open Call

Required Application Materials

Applicants must submit the following:

• Completed application form
• Images of artwork: 
  • Up to five works of art
  • High-resolution images with captions
  • Accepted formats: .jpg, .tiff, .png, or .gif
  • Minimum resolution: 1920 × 1080 pixels

      

• Film and video submissions: 
  • Two minutes of video, film, sound, or performance documentation equals one work
  • Up to 10 minutes total may be submitted
  • Accepted formats: .mp4 

      

• Artist statement (maximum 250 words)
• Artist bio (maximum 150 words)
• Resume or CV

Resume Guidance

We understand that creating an artist résumé can feel intimidating if you’re early in your career. Strong résumés can be brief, as long as they are clear and well organized. Relevant experience may include:

• Student art exhibitions
• Assisting at art camps or community programs
• Teaching or facilitating art classes

Helpful Resources

These resources are provided to help applicants submit competitive materials and develop professional practices:

• Artist statement and artist bio
• Artist résumé
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Exhibition and sale of artwork
• Guidelines for presenting artwork in digital format

About VisArts

VisArts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to transform individuals and communities through the visual arts.

A hub for artistic exploration and social impact since 1987, VisArts brings people together through shared creative experiences, including:

• Critically acclaimed contemporary art exhibitions, programs, and events
• Award-winning art classes, camps, and parties for children and adults
• Studio Artist and Emerging Curator programs
• VisAbility Art Lab and Accessible Arts Classes for artists with disabilities
• Community art workshops
• Art + Wellness programs
• Volunteer and internship opportunities

Together, these initiatives inspire new ideas, encourage self-expression, embrace diverse perspectives, and celebrate the visual arts as essential to a connected community.