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Join NextCanvas

  • To join the NextCanvas Young Creators community, simply submit one piece of 2-D artwork - don't worry about perfection; we are looking for originality and creativity

  • A community invite will be sent to you shortly after submission review

  • All artworks will undergo professional evaluation for a chance to be awarded and exhibited

  • Please submit your favorite/best works

  • Young Creator Community application is open year-round but submission deadline to be considered for 2026 NYC exhibition selection is June 3rd 

What You'll Gain

All student artists who submit will

  • Be inducted into the Young Creator's community 

  • Get connections and live events with professional artists (workshops, internships, drawing sessions etc.)

  • Get peer + professional critiques

  • Know about all art opportunities from museum events to contests

  • Have name listed on our website as an exclusive member (If agreed) 

Selected student artists will also

  • Receive 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place awards

  • Have a featured personal profile cube with artworks and personal descriptions 

  • Have the opportunity to be curated in a New York City exhibition (Further notice and details will be sent if selected)

Eligibility

  • Be a high school student in grades 9–12, or 14–18 years old as of January 1 of the application year

  • Submit original and appropriate hand-drawn 2D artwork

  • Digital works are allowed

  • Use of AI is not permitted

  • Have parent or guardian permission to enter

What Our Jury Looks For

We review submissions holistically, with special attention to:

  • Originality and artistic voice

  • Composition and visual clarity

  • Technical intention (skill used in service of the idea)

  • Concept and meaning (what the work is trying to communicate)

  • Growth potential (promise as a future leader in the arts)

How to Enter and Timeline

Submissions open now

  • Upload 1–3 pieces of original artwork (see Artwork Rights)

  • Your first artwork is free; each additional entry is $10 USD

  • We will conduct rolling review throughout the season

  • You will be invited to join our community after submission review

  • Awards/gallery selection announcement August 2026

  • Gallery exhibition will be held September 2026

Uploading your first artwork is free to ensure equal opportunity to all. Each additional submission is $10 and helps support student programs, scholarships, and exhibitions. All entry fees are reinvested into NextCanvas initiatives.
More details: Financial Integrity & Transparency Statement

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