2026’s theme is “(Human)kind: Human Connection and Spirit in the Age of AI.” Artists are invited to explore how access and equity are being shaped by AI. This exhibition reflects on the strength of the human spirit, and our ability to empathize, create, and connect. What does it means to be human in an increasingly digital age?

Submissions will be open Monday, January 5th through Monday, March 2nd 2026.

Art is Life 2025 Employee Artist Showcase June 24-27

Our 2025 virtual gallery is live! Visit on.nyc.gov/virtualgallery to check out this year’s submissions.

The theme of this year’s exhibition is "Life Lessons Learned”, a key aspect of WorkWell NYC’s Project B.U.I.L.D. programming. “Life Lessons Learned” draws on moments of growth, resilience, introspection, and the human experience. This collection will celebrate learning from the challenges and beauty in each of our journeys.

The Art is Life 2025 Employee Artist Showcase will feature works created by City employees in the following art forms such as:

• Visual Arts (photography, painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, collage, printmaking, or textile)
• Performing Arts/Media (acting, audio recording, dancing, film or video, playing an instrument, or singing) and
• Literary Works (poetry, novel, short story, or script)

To learn more about past showcases, visit nyc.gov/projectbuild.

Art is Life Gallery Exhibition: March 25-27, 2024

Check out these photos from last year's in-person exhibition.

Check out our previous Art is Life galleries:

• 2024 Theme: Building Understanding
• 2023 Theme: We Are NYC! Celebrating the Diversity of NYC
• 2020 Theme: Reflecting the Events of 2020