DDANS Art Contest 2027: Digital Entries for Artists with Developmental Disabilities by 30 November
Los Angeles-based DDANS Foundation is inviting digital first-round entries to its January 2027 art contest. The competition is intended for artists with developmental disabilities. Applicants should send image documentation of their artwork by 30 November 2026, with a later physical artwork intake for those selected in the first round. A digital application does not mean that only digitally produced art is eligible.
DEADLINES — Online or email submissions opened on 18 August 2026 and close on 30 November 2026. First-round results are scheduled for 15 December 2026. Selected artists then arrange delivery of the original work between 16 December 2026 and 15 January 2027. The organiser asks finalists to call and schedule an appointment before bringing work in.
WHO CAN ENTER — DDANS describes its programme as being for artists with developmental disabilities and states that applicants need not provide diagnoses or medical records. Its primary application page does not clearly announce a nationality restriction, but because selected works require physical delivery to Los Angeles, artists elsewhere should ask about transport options before entering.
AWARDS — The announced prize pool is US$600 across six artists: $300 for first prize, $100 for second prize and four third prizes of $50 each. These amounts match the award tiers from the 2026 contest; winning is not guaranteed and prizes should not be confused with reimbursement of artwork transport costs.
APPLICATION METHODS — The organiser describes an official Google form that may require sign-in to upload images, along with an equivalent no-login submission by email to contact@ddans.org. Its application page currently marks the form link as pending. One entry covers one artwork, with one to three clear images and a brief artist introduction. Keep a copy of your submission and avoid sending unnecessary sensitive records.
ABOUT DDANS — The name means Developmental Disability Artist Needs Support. The foundation publishes information about its completed 2026 art contest and Los Angeles exhibition programming, including the 'Beyond the Senses' exhibition at Shatto Gallery. The earlier contest archive is a useful reference when evaluating the programme.
BEFORE SUBMITTING — Ask the organisers about physical artwork delivery, any fees not stated on the application page and accessibility accommodations. The organiser requests that applicants not email medical records, exact birth dates or complete street addresses. Eligibility and artwork requirements must be read directly from the current call.
OFFICIAL CONTEST — https://contest.ddans.org/?lang=en
OFFICIAL SUBMISSION INFORMATION — https://contest.ddans.org/apply/?lang=en
Organiser's current website and archived contest information checked on 20 October 2026.