50 digital content creators from across the United States will have the opportunity to reinterpret works of art from the National Gallery’s collection on social media

Washington, DC—The National Gallery of Art is hosting an open call for its first-ever creator-led social media campaign celebrating American creativity in all forms. The campaign is part of the museum’s programs and exhibitions commemorating America’s 250th anniversary this year. Between January 13 and February 28, 2026, social media creators are invited to submit proposals for short-form videos inspired by works of art from the museum’s collection. The initiative aims to foster dialogue and new points of connection between the nation’s art collection and creatives from across the country.

Following the open call, 50 proposals will be selected and announced in early April. The selected individuals will then transform their ideas into short-form videos. The National Gallery will share select creations on its social media platforms and inside the museum, reaching over two million followers online and additional visitors onsite. Each of the 50 creators will also receive a $3,000 honorarium.

All types of creative approaches and artistic media are welcome, from painting, photography, and poetry to fashion, dance, and animation. Creators with varying levels of experience are encouraged to submit a proposal, regardless of artistic background or familiarity with the museum field.

“Marking the first campaign of its kind at the nation’s art museum, we’re thrilled to invite Americans to be inspired by our collection in a completely new way,” said Nick Sharp, chief digital officer at the National Gallery of Art. “Talented creators are everywhere, and more people than ever now have the tools to create work in their own voice, no matter where they are. This initiative is an opportunity for people across the country to showcase their ideas, style, and creativity—and we can’t wait to see what they have to share.” 

Creators will choose their source of inspiration from a series of works from the museum’s collection, selected for their significance to American art history. Examples include Frederic Edwin Church’s Niagara (1857) and Mary Cassatt’s Woman with a Sunflower (c. 1905). Creators can also choose from iconic works in the National Gallery collection such as Leonardo da Vinci’s Ginevra de’ Benci (c. 1474/1478).

The submission form, featured works of art, entry guidelines, terms and conditions, and other details can be found at nga.gov/open-call.

About the National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art welcomes all people to explore art, creativity, and our shared humanity. Millions of people come through its doors each year—with millions more online—making it one of the most visited art museums in the world. The National Gallery’s renowned collection includes nearly 160,000 works of art, from the ancient world to today. Admission to the West and East Buildings, Sculpture Garden, special exhibitions, and public programs is always free.