Austin Artist Call 2026–2028: City Hall People’s Gallery and AUS Airport Exhibits Now Accepting Applications
For artists across the Austin area, an opportunity is opening that goes beyond gallery walls—it’s a chance to become part of the city’s daily rhythm.
Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment (ACME) has announced open calls for two major public art programs: the 2026–2028 People’s Gallery at Austin City Hall and the 2026 Changing Exhibits Program at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). Together, these exhibitions will place local creativity directly in front of hundreds of thousands of residents, visitors, and travelers, reinforcing Austin’s identity as one of the nation’s most recognized creative hubs.
With no submission fees and a firm deadline of May 31, 2026, the call is designed to be accessible—inviting both emerging and established artists to contribute to the visual narrative of Central Texas.
Why This Matters for Austin’s Creative Community
In a city where art, music, and culture are woven into everyday life, opportunities like these do more than showcase talent—they strengthen the local economy, support artists’ livelihoods, and reflect the diversity of the region.
Public art programs like the People’s Gallery and AUS exhibitions help ensure that creativity remains visible and accessible, not limited to private spaces. For residents, it means encountering local art during routine moments—whether walking through City Hall or catching a flight. For artists, it offers exposure that can elevate careers and connect their work to a broader audience.
“Austin’s creative community is the heartbeat of our city. These exhibitions provide a platform for artists to share their vision with thousands of residents and visitors, reinforcing our commitment to cultural vibrancy and inclusivity," said Angela Means, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment Director.
Inside the People’s Gallery at Austin City Hall
Located across the first three floors of Austin City Hall (301 W. 2nd St.), the People’s Gallery has long served as a cornerstone of public art in the city. Open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., the space welcomes more than 200,000 visitors each year.
The exhibition highlights both 2-D and 3-D artwork across all media, offering a platform for artists to spark conversation and reflect the cultural diversity of Austin and surrounding communities.
For many residents, the gallery represents more than an exhibit—it’s a living reflection of the city’s identity, shaped by the people who call it home.
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Art Takes Flight at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
At Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, art becomes part of the travel experience itself.
Through the Changing Exhibits Program, ACME curates artwork across 12 gallery spaces throughout the terminal, reaching more than 20,000 daily passengers. The 2026 exhibition invites artists to respond to the theme “Vestiges of the Future,” encouraging forward-thinking, multi-disciplinary proposals that reflect both innovation and place.
While the exhibit is located in post-security areas and accessible to ticketed passengers, its impact extends far beyond—introducing visitors from around the world to Austin’s creative voice the moment they arrive.
Who Can Apply and What to Know
The call is open to a wide range of creatives, including:
- Professional visual artists (18+) living or working in the Austin area
- Artists and organizations based in Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, or Williamson Counties
- Austin-based galleries and visual arts organizations
Selected works must be exhibition-ready, including proper framing, mounting, or installation components. All pieces must be free-standing and self-operating, with final installation coordinated through ACME.
Artists also have the option to sell their work, with one key benefit: the City of Austin does not take commission, allowing artists to manage sales directly.
Supporting Austin’s Creative Future
ACME itself was established to bring Austin’s cultural efforts under one unified umbrella—connecting public art, heritage, music, tourism, and special events into a coordinated ecosystem. The goal is simple but significant: to sustain and grow Austin’s reputation as a global destination for creativity while honoring its local roots.
Programs like these exhibitions reflect that mission in action, creating real opportunities for artists while ensuring that creativity remains a visible and valued part of everyday life in Austin.
Importantly, ACME is also prioritizing accessibility. Artists who need support during the application process—including technical assistance—are encouraged to reach out directly for accommodations.
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What Happens Next
Artists interested in participating should begin preparing submissions now, with all applications due by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, May 31, 2026. Final selections will shape exhibitions running from October 2026 through May 2028, offering long-term visibility and impact.
Application guidelines and submission details are available through the City of Austin’s official arts and culture website.
For Austin residents, this call is a reminder of something deeply familiar: the city’s story is still being written—and its artists are the ones holding the pen.
Stay connected with My Neighborhood News for more updates on local opportunities, events, and community-driven stories shaping Central Texas.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.