DAM hosts an annual open call for our Featured Artist Program, supporting early-career artists through professional development and connectioning them with local collectors and the broader community.

The Featured Artist Program is a cornerstone initiative at Detroit Artists Market, designed to support emerging artists through a professional development series that culminates in a solo exhibition. Through an open call, seven artists are selected to join a cohort that participates in peer learning and a tailored curriculum focused on key career-building topics such as pricing artwork, writing artist statements, and preparing gallery-ready work. The following year, each participating artist presents a cohesive body of work in a solo exhibition at DAM.

The Featured Artist space is designed to highlight a single artist’s work and serves as a separate exhibition space from our main gallery. In addition to elevating the work of an emerging artist, the Featured Artist space encourages new art collectors to discover high-quality, affordably priced artwork. Artists are encouraged to offer a variety of sizes and price points to support a wide range of collectors and community buyers.

Below are key details about how DAM works with Featured Artists:

• Educational Sessions.  Artists participate in a tailored curriculum with DAM staff—covering pricing strategies, artist statements & bios, and preparing gallery-ready work.
• Artwork. The Featured Artist space accommodates works of all media, including 2D and 3D pieces.
• Space Specifications. Artists present in the Featured Artist Gallery, a space measuring approximately 245 sq ft. Pedestals and shelving of various sizes are available for use.
• Pricing. Artists are encouraged to prioritize accessible price points, with most work priced under $500. A select number of pieces may be priced up to $1,000. DAM will work with artists to recommend pricing that aligns with current sales trends and helps maximize opportunities for sales.
• Installation Details. All works must be wired and ready for display upon delivery. All work will be handled and installed by DAM’s professional art installer.
• Pre-Show Deliverables. Artists must submit the following before dropping off work:
  • A brief artist bio.
  • A brief statement about the featured works.
  • High-quality photos of all works for promotional use and the gallery website.
  • A completed consignment form.