National Gallery Launches Open Call for Amateur Artists

Creators can win $3,000 and have their work displayed at the prestigious museum.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The National Gallery of Art is challenging amateur artists to recreate one of 100 chosen works from its collection in any way they can imagine, from pebble sculptures to social media dances. The top 50 submissions will be selected to create a vertical video of their idea, which will be displayed at the museum and on its social media channels. The winners will also receive a $3,000 prize.

Why it matters

This open call is an opportunity for the National Gallery to engage with a wider creative community and bring new life to its collection through innovative interpretations. It also allows amateur artists to gain exposure and recognition at one of the most prestigious art institutions in the world.

The details

Artists must submit a written proposal describing how they would remix a certain piece from the National Gallery's collection. The museum's team will review submissions in March and select the top 50 to create a vertical video of their idea. These videos will be displayed at the National Gallery as well as on its social media channels.

  • The open call for submissions is open until February 28, 2026.
  • The National Gallery will review submissions in March 2026 and select the top 50 artists.
  • The winning artists will receive $3,000 each and have their work displayed at the National Gallery and on its social media channels.

The players

National Gallery of Art

One of the most prestigious art museums in the world, located in Washington, D.C.

Sydni Myers

The National Gallery's social media manager, who is overseeing the open call for amateur artists.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We truly are inviting people to express themselves with us and to co-author culture.”

— Sydni Myers, Social Media Manager, National Gallery of Art (WTOP)

“It's an opportunity not only to bring new life to our social media channels, but also inside the museum.”

— Sydni Myers, Social Media Manager, National Gallery of Art (WTOP)

What’s next

The National Gallery will review submissions in March 2026 and select the top 50 artists to create vertical videos of their ideas.

The takeaway

This open call from the National Gallery of Art provides a unique opportunity for amateur artists to gain exposure and recognition at one of the world's most prestigious art institutions, while also allowing the museum to engage with a wider creative community and bring new interpretations to its collection.