AVA Lab 2026

To be eligible for both the AVA Lab cohort and the culminating exhibition, Futures We Carry, all submitted work samples must be fully completed prior to the start of the program. Submitted works should represent finished pieces, not proposals, works-in-progress, or concepts intended to be completed during the fellowship.

Eligible submissions include:

• Fully realized artworks (single works or a cohesive body of work)
• Works previously exhibited or newly completed, as long as they are complete by the program start date

By submitting work samples, applicants affirm that the works are completed and ready for exhibition consideration.

Please upload: 

• 5-7 work samples (image, title, medium, and short description)
• for video upload files or doc with links

AVA Lab Attendance Policy

AVA Lab is a cohort-based program grounded in collective learning, mutual accountability, and respect for shared time. Consistent attendance is essential to the integrity of the program and to the experience of the full cohort.

Attendance Expectations

• Participants are expected to attend all scheduled AVA Lab sessions, including workshops, cohort meetings, and required program activities.
• Absences must be communicated in advance whenever possible, or as soon as reasonably possible in the case of emergencies.
• An unexcused absence is defined as a no call, no show, or failure to communicate an absence.
• Participants may have no more than one (1) unexcused absence during the program.
• More than one unexcused absence will result in disqualification from the culminating exhibition and retreat.

Communication & Care

• AVA Lab recognizes that life circumstances arise and encourages participants to communicate openly with program staff.
• Participants experiencing ongoing challenges that may affect attendance should reach out proactively so that appropriate support, expectations, or adjustments can be discussed.