Emerging artists are the future of tomorrow’s art, but it’s not always an easy path. We designed our Emerging Artist Program (EAP) to help ease the journey from emerging artist to successful, experienced artist-business person.

Emerging artists are juried separately, still using criteria similar to our other events. The EAP artist(s) are selected and paired with a Northwest Art Alliance legacy artist who acts as a mentor. The EAP artist is awarded a booth space free of charge (including pole, drape, and electricity) in the Best of the Northwest Spring show and featured prominently in show promotional materials.

The NWAA mentor will be an experienced BNW artist who can share their expertise and help the emerging artist prepare for the event by being available to answer questions and “show them the ropes” of participating in Seattle’s premier art and fine craft show. The mentor donate their time for 6 weeks preceding the show to their protege to help them prepare for their BNW debut.

What is the definition of an Emerging Artist?
An emerging artist is an artist that has mastered the basic techniques in her/his art form and is attempting to launch a professional career in the arts or an artist taking their established career in a new direction.

All mediums are allowed to jury, EXCEPT JEWELRY. Limited reproductions are acceptable. One-of-a-kind artwork is preferred. Applications for the Best of the Northwest Show are OPEN. Application for the EAP open on Dec 1st, 2025. Add your email to our list to be the first to receive updates on when the EAP call opens.