American University Museum

Alper Initiative for Washington Art (AIWA) Submission Instructions

Mission Statement

The Alper Initiative for Washington Art is an artist-centered gathering and exhibition space where the creative voices of the Washington, D.C., region are showcased, amplified, and brought into dialogue with the broader currents of contemporary art.

 Call for Submissions

Thank you for your interest in exhibiting your work at the American University Museum. We are currently accepting applications for artists and guest curators for the Spring and Summer 2027 exhibition cycles.

 Please note that as of February 2026, we have conducted an in-depth review of our application process to enhance and streamline the experience for artists and curators wishing to apply. All previous applications will not be reviewed in this new round of screening. In order to be considered for an exhibition (individual piece, solo show, or group show) or a guest curatorial role, please resubmit your application via Submittable.  We accept and review submissions from artists, of all ages, backgrounds, and mediums, that currently live or work in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region (no further than 60 miles outside of Washington, D.C.) All submissions must be made via the link below. Submissions made through any other platform, or that are incomplete, will not be accepted.

  Applications for the Spring and Summer 2027 exhibition cycles are due May 1st, 2026.

 Application Requirements

Please submit the following materials using the Submittable link below:

• First and last name
• Mailing address
• Email
• Website / social media accounts
• Artist statement / curatorial focus
• Alignment with the AU Museum and AIWA
• CV/Resume
• Images of artwork

Please be aware that there are four different exhibition opportunities within the application.

• One Artist, One Piece: Artist(s) chosen for this program will be invited to exhibit a single piece in the Alper gallery. Please submit up to five works for consideration. The chosen work(s) will remain on view for the entirety of the selected exhibition cycle.
• Solo Exhibition: An artist chosen for this exhibition opportunity will be highlighted individually in the Alper gallery. The exhibition will be curated by the museum staff.
• Group Exhibition: Artists chosen for this opportunity will have selected pieces from their submitted portfolio featured in a group exhibition. In your submission, please indicate your exhibition’s throughline and if a curator is already involved in the project.
• Guest Curator: We invite interested scholars and/or guest curators to propose exhibition ideas or themes from either the AIWA application pool or preselected local artists.

Submissions will be made available to curators of Alper Initiative exhibitions, but are not guaranteed to be exhibited. If chosen for an exhibition, the applicant will be contacted by AIWA with further information.

Questions or Concerns: 202-885-3672 or museum@american.edu