About us

Art competitions since 1984

A division of the Agora Group, connecting artists worldwide with exhibition opportunities in Chelsea, New York.

Est. 1984 · Chelsea, New York

Our story

New York Art Competitions (NYAC), a division of the Agora Group, organizes international juried art competitions for artists and photographers worldwide, including the Chelsea International Fine Art Competition, the Chelsea International Photography Competition, and Cars Reimagined, with exhibitions at Agora Gallery in Chelsea, New York.

In 1984, Miki Stiles, an artist-turned-gallerist, founded Ariel Gallery in a small SoHo walk-up. Determined to break barriers in the art world, she created an inclusive space where artists could exhibit outside the constraints of the traditional gallery system. As the gallery expanded across SoHo, Stiles rebranded it as Agora Gallery, embracing the concept of an “agora”: a gathering place for artistic exchange.

To further support artists, she launched the first juried art competition, providing a platform to connect with collectors, curators, and critics. That first competition laid the groundwork for the Chelsea International Fine Art Competition, the Chelsea International Photography Competition, and other open competitions such as Metropolitan Melodies and Identity in the Modern World.

After Stiles' passing in 2000, her son carried on her mission, relocating Agora Gallery to Chelsea in 2002. Today, New York Art Competitions continues her vision, championing artistic excellence and fostering a global creative community.

What entering offers

A New York exhibition credit, jury selection, cash prizes, and year-long visibility on ARTmine.com.

01

Gain international recognition

Be part of an event that showcases exceptional talent and attracts art enthusiasts worldwide.

02

Network and collaborate

Connect with fellow artists and industry professionals, fostering lifelong connections and opportunities.

03

Enhance your portfolio

Show your work in a renowned gallery, boosting your artistic profile and career prospects.

Open now

Lewis Bangham, Sister Green
Accepting entries

A Fresh Perspective on Contemporary Art

Our flagship competition, welcoming painters, sculptors, photographers, mixed media artists and other visual artists worldwide.

  • Deadline May 4, 2027
  • $55 until Dec 31, then $65
Cars Reimagined exhibition
Cars Reimagined
Accepting entries

Art, Design, and the Automobile Reimagined

The automobile as a subject for creative expression: painters, photographers, sculptors, illustrators and digital artists worldwide.

  • Deadline January 26, 2027

In their words

“It was a “wow” moment to display my work alongside artists from different countries — enriching from start to finish.”

Bhairavi ModiIndia · 36th CIFAC

“Well-organized and professional throughout. I look forward to future exhibitions.”

Yaowei TuCanada · 38th CIFAC

“A very positive experience — thoughtfully arranged, with an impressive turn-out at the opening.”

Carol LevineUnited States · 37th CIFAC

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