ATTENTION
Summer Art Intensive Academy 2026 Applicants
APPLICATION PORTAL OPENS:
FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2026 at 12:00AM (PST/Los Angeles)
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APPLICATION SUBMISSION DEADLINE:
FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2026 at 11:59PM (PST/Los Angeles)
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The Kadir Nelson Institute for Young and Emerging Artists, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing and empowering aspiring artists across the lifespan through education, mentorship, and opportunity. Headquartered in Southern California, we provide summer intensive art academies, master classes, educational workshops, and more throughout the year.
Your tax deductible donation supports our programs and helps us inspire creativity and build a brighter future for young and emerging talents. Check back often to learn more about our open submission calls and more!
KADIR NELSON INSTITUTE FOR YOUNG AND EMERGING ARTISTS (KNIYEA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is looking for the best and brightest from around the globe to participate in a competitive, all-expenses paid, two-week Summer Art Intensive Academy led by world-renowned artist and author, Kadir Nelson, and award-winning educator and socialpreneur, Dr. Jungmiwha Bullock N.
The KNIYEA Summer Art Intensive Academy 2026 is for serious college-aged artists between the ages of 17 - 22 who will learn the fundamentals of storytelling, oil painting, and best art business practices to compete in the global market. Rising high school seniors and recent college graduates are eligible to apply, however, enrollment in college is not necessary. This competitive academy includes hands-on art and business instruction, studio art, field trips, special guest lectures, and a culminating group exhibition.
All-expenses includes round trip airfare (or mileage reimbursement), ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, studio space, supplies, and modest stipends. The Academy takes place in Southern California.
2026 PROGRAM DATES
Saturday, July 25, 2026 - Saturday, August 8, 2026
APPLICATION GUIDELINES
HOW TO APPLY:
Eligibility Form: All applicants must complete the eligibility form at the start of the application.
Applications Open: Friday, April 24, 2026 (12:00 AM Pacific Standard Time)
Application Deadline: Friday, May 22, 2026 (11:59 PM Pacific Standard Time)
Application Fee: $50 application fee
REVIEW PERIOD:
Semi-Finalists Notified: Friday, May 29, 2026
Semi-Finalists Interviews: Monday, June 1 - Friday, June 5, 2026
Finalists Selected and Notified: By or before Monday, June 8, 2026
LOGISTICS PERIOD:
Completion Deadline for Participants Paperwork PT. 1: Monday, June 15, 2026
Completion Deadline for Participants Paperwork PT. 2: Monday, June 22, 2026
All Flights and Accommodations Finalized: By or before June 26, 2026
COMPLETED APPLICATIONS MUST INCLUDE:
- Completed Application Form
- Statement of Interest in participating in the KNIYEA Summer Art Intensive Academy and how it will impact your overall practice.
- Artist Resume
- Portfolio of requested artwork detailed in the application
- Three (3) References Forms (contact information only – no formal letters required)
- $50 Non-Refundable Application Fee
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
The KNIYEA Summer Art Intensive Academy 2026 is currently open to "college-aged applicants" between the ages of 17 - 22 (rising high school seniors and recent college graduates are eligible to apply). Applicants DO NOT need to be enrolled in a current degree granting institution to apply, nor have prior experience with oil painting or business. Raw talent will be equally considered.
All eligible artists, including those individuals requiring accommodations (examples: ASL translators, foreign language, accessibility, etc.) are strongly encouraged to apply.
Artists who are not eligible to participate in the KNI YEA Summer Art Intensive Academy may enroll in KNIYEA Masterclass Workshops posted throughout the year on our website (www.kadirnelsoninstitute.org). Artists whom are eligible to participate in the KNI YEA Summer Institute may also enroll in KNIYEA Masterclass Workshops.
Must have a serious desire to learn new techniques and to pursue a potential future in the arts.
PROGRAM LOCATION
The program instruction will be hosted in the downtown Riverside Arts and Culture District in Southern California. Accommodations will be provided at our sponsoring hotel within walking distance to the studio. Outside excursions will be provided to participants throughout the academy.
QUESTIONS
Should you have any questions, please reach out to the program at info@kadirnelsoninstitute.org as soon as possible. Due to volume, we will NOT prioritize questions that are answered in program materials.
Late applications will NOT be accepted under any circumstances, including technical issues. Please plan ahead.