The Shed is seeking proposals for new works across all disciplines for the second edition of Open Call, its large-scale commissioning program for early-career artists who live and work in New York City. Proposals are currently being accepted online with a submission deadline of May 31, 2020. Commissions from selected artists will be presented in 2021.

Born out of The Shed’s commitment to supporting early-career artists and a diverse range of voices and experiences, the Open Call program selects, fosters, and presents new work from NYC artists who have not yet received major support. It embraces NYC’s diversity of emerging talent in its many forms—including artistic medium, race, ethnicity, age, identity, physical ability, and more.

The Shed will support selected projects with a commissioning fee of up to USD 15,000 per artist or collective. Participants will be selected by leaders in their fields, including artists, cultural programmers, academics, and members of The Shed’s staff.

Additionally, as part of the Open Call process, The Shed will offer four online information sessions. All applicants are encouraged to join one of these to learn more about the program and have any questions answered.

Open Call 2021 will be presented throughout The Shed’s spaces in 2021 (dates to be announced)—on the Plaza, in The Griffin Theater, and Level 2 Gallery—allowing for the presentation of a range of artistic experiences and perspectives in these newly commissioned works.

What are they looking for?
In line with The Shed’s mission, Open Call values proposals that are cross-disciplinary, inventive, and bold. They look for submissions that are both idea-driven and resonant, and which can be feasibly realized. They encourage artists to be inclusive and equitable as they engage their ideas and communities with intellectual and aesthetic rigor.

How can I apply?
For more information and to apply, visit theshed.org/opencallapply. Applications close May 31, 2020. There is no application fee. Please email opencall@theshed.org with any questions.

About The Shed
Located on Manhattan’s West Side, The Shed commissions original works of art, across all disciplines, for all audiences. From hip hop to classical music, painting and sculpture to literature, film to theater and dance, The Shed brings together leading and emerging artists and thinkers from all disciplines under one roof. Committed to nurturing artistic invention and bringing creative experiences to the broadest possible audiences, The Shed is a 21st-century space of and for New York City.

theshed.org