APPLY NOW!
Deadline to apply: March 5 @ midnight
WHAT IS EMERGE?
For over 30 years, ADC has been dedicated to supporting living artists—and Emerge is the realization of a vision we’ve been building toward for years. Created specifically for students and emerging artists ages 18–25, Emerge is designed to spark momentum, open doors, and help launch the next generation of creative voices.
This is about opportunity at a pivotal moment. Artists will compete for $25,000 in awards—along with invaluable exposure to collectors, industry professionals, and the broader arts community.
Built to inspire confidence, elevate talent, and jumpstart careers, Emerge is more than a competition—it’s a launchpad.
OUR AWARDS
- Purchase Awards totaling $10,000+
- 5 one-year SmartSell Memberships totaling $10,000
- 6 Cash Grants totaling $5,000
- Best in Show: $2,000
- Runner Up: $1,000
- Honorable Mention: $500
- Kitty Uetz Grant: $500
- Kevin Grass Grant: $500
- Da'mon Butler Grant: $500
In Loving Memory of
KITTY UETZ
Aug. 19, 1945 - Dec. 20, 2025
Xavier University Art Galleries Director & Fiber Arts Professor
GRANT: $500
Kitty Uetz was a passionate fiber artist and beloved professor whose dedication to teaching and creative exploration shaped generations of students at Xavier University. Known for her warmth, and mastery of fiber arts, she inspired her community through both her artwork and her generous, deeply engaged approach to education.
KEVIN GRASS
Mar. 18, 1968 - Feb. 25, 2025
St. Petersburg College Associate Professor of Art
GRANT: $500
Kevin Grass was a devoted painter and art professor at St. Petersburg College whose deep love for art was matched by his passion for teaching and mentoring students. Known for his richly detailed, narrative paintings, he brought the same care, curiosity, and generosity into the classroom, inspiring countless young artists to see, think, and create more deeply.
DA'MON BUTLER
Mar. 17, 1966 - Dec. 26, 2025
NOMAD 3176 Designer, Creative & Mentor
GRANT: $500
Da’Mon Butler was a visionary whose fashion and jewelry designs transformed the ordinary into the extraordinary. Beyond his artistry, Da’Mon inspired others through kindness, service, and authenticity. His work continues to shine as a reflection of his generous spirit and unparalleled aesthetic—a legacy of beauty, purpose, and love.
IMPORTANT DATES
January 23 ........................................................ Applications Open
March 5 ............................................... Applications Close
March 9 ............................................ Results Announced
MEET THE JURORS.
LITSA SPANOS
President, ADC Fine Art
ANNIE KAUTZ
Gallery Director, ADC Fine Art
AMY SCALIA
Marketing Director, ADC Fine Art
AVERY DOYLE
Marketing & PR Coordinator, ADC Fine Art
CHANCE SMITH
Assistant Gallery Director, ADC Fine Art
GRACE BELLISSEMO
Gallery Coordinator, ADC Fine Art
Have a question?
Don't be afraid to reach out. We are happy to assist you with any questions you may have!