> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://hyperallergic.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# The Kennedy Center’s Open Call to Fund and Showcase Emerging Artists With Disabilities
- URL: https://hyperallergic.com/kennedy-center-merge-open-call-fund-showcase-emerging-artists-with-disabilities/
- Published: 2021-04-26T18:01:00.000Z
- Updated: 2025-11-24T15:13:54.000Z
- Description: Merge is open to US visual artists with disabilities who are between the ages of 16 and 25. The grand prize is $20,000.
- Author: The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
- Tags: Announcement, Opportunities, Sponsored, #wp, #wp-post, #image-position-large, #Import 2025-11-24 09:11 (2021, 2022, part 1)

The Kennedy Center [VSA Emerging Young Artists Program](https://bit.ly/3tOnGtN?ref=hyperallergic.com) seeks visual artwork that demonstrates the excellence and important perspectives of artists with disabilities, ages 16–25, residing in the United States. 15 artists will share a total of $60,000 in awards, with a grand prize of $20,000\. For winning artists, one of the submitted artworks will be selected for a national exhibition. As a cohort, the artists will attend professional development activities provided by the Kennedy Center, gaining skills and tools to craft sustaining careers as artists. 

The theme for this year’s contest is *Merge*, which invites artists to consider the intersections and combinations of their creative process and disability identity. In art, the juxtaposition of ideas can blur distinctions or reveal something new. *Merge* asks artists to explore uniting paths and ask what we can learn when it all comes together.

**The application deadline is May 5, 2021, at 11:59pm (EDT). All eligibility details can be found on the application page. To apply, complete** [**the application and submit up to six pieces**](https://bit.ly/3neczb6?ref=hyperallergic.com)**.**

If you have any questions about the program or the application process, please email [vsainfo@kennedy-center.org](mailto:vsainfo@kennedy-center.org).

*Volkswagen Group of America is the VSA Emerging Young Artists Program Presenting Sponsor.*

*A Jean Kennedy Smith Arts and Disability Program.*