About the Open Call

The 2026 Spring Flagship Program is the heart and soul of EmergeNYC since 2008. Designed and led by george emilio sánchez, this program is open to artists in the New York City area, and is comprised of weekly workshops facilitated by george, as well as workshops by guest artists who are leaders in the field of performance and politics. With a decolonial lens, we explore the intersection of art and activism through creative writing, autobiographical narratives, group work, and other multi-disciplinary adventures—all while creating and re-creating a space in which all participants build community with one another, actively listen with their bodies, and build intentional trust to lay a foundation where compassion and risk-taking guide our work together. Applicants are asked to define issues important to them and explore how creative practices can harness their political voice, resulting in the creation of performance art pieces, multimedia installations, theatrical explorations, street performances, and video art. The program runs every Sunday from February 8th to May 10th, 2026, with a culminating Works in Progress Showcase on Saturday, May 16, 2026. This program has a tuition fee of USD $1,000, with financial aid available and a commitment that nobody will be turned away for lack of funds.

What is Offered

Weekly workshops facilitated by george emilio sánchez and guest artists. An opportunity to explore art and activism with a decolonial lens. Community building, active listening, and trust-building environment. Support in harnessing political voice through creative practices. Culminating Works in Progress Showcase. Financial aid available, ensuring no one is turned away for lack of funds.

Requirements

Open to emerging artists/activists who live in the NYC area. All applicants must have prior experience in various performance genres and/or activist practices. Age is not a determining factor. We encourage BIPOC, migrant, LGBTQIA+, and disabled artists to apply.

How to Apply

Applications for the EmergeNYC 2026 Flagship Cycle are NOW OPEN! Submissions are due by 11:59pm EST on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Applicants will be asked to submit a biographical statement, a statement of purpose, a resume or CV, and two (2) work samples. An optional paragraph explaining financial aid request is also accepted. Finalists will be interviewed via Zoom. Apply online through Submittable. For any questions, email artistprograms@bax.org.