The Detroit Youth Artists Congress is a new congress of young Detroit artists, convened to identify the issues that matter most to youth arts access in our city and to carry a set of recommendations to the Mayor, policymakers, and funders.
We're looking for 30 young artists, ages 14 to 19, to serve as the first class of DYAC delegates. Most delegates will either live in Detroit, Highland Park, or Hamtramck; attend school in one of those cities; or represent an arts organization based there. We also want a smaller group of delegates who bring a different vantage point. If that's you, your application should speak directly to your passion for Detroit and how the city fits into where you're headed.
What to expect: Delegates are paid a stipend of $500 for their full participation. This includes participating in virtual check-ins, communicating with program staff, and attending two planned in-person convenings.
This application asks about who you are, the art you make, and how you think. It is not a test. No single answer is right, and you don't need special training or a long resume to apply. We're looking for real reflection. This congress doesn't have a budget for new programs, but it does have a seat at the table for your perspective.
A few sections are optional and will not affect your acceptance into the program: the accommodations question, supplemental documents, and the final open-ended question. We ask about accommodations early so we can plan for transportation, technology, and other supports as soon as possible. They do not factor into how we evaluate your application.
Applications open October 28 and close December 2, 2026. Selected delegates will hear from us by December 14, 2026.
If there is an adult in your life who you think can attest to your qualifications, please direct them to submit a nomination here (https://tinyurl.com/dyacnomination). Nominations are encouraged but not mandatory!
Questions? Email us at deya.yac@gmail.com