The application is easy — just make sure to submit before March 31.

Last year’s winner Juliana Woods (Cooper Union, C’28). Credit: Ryan Muir.

ed. note: The competition is now closed. Thank you to all who entered!

About four million people pass through Astor Place Plaza each month—and hardly any of them stop to look at the utility boxes that give the so-called “heart of Greenwich Village” its pulse. At Village Alliance, we see that as a missed opportunity. The humble transformer was designed to blend into its environment. Ironically, that makes it a perfect canvas.

Last year, we hosted our first public art competition for students. The winner—Juliana Woods, Cooper Union C’28—was awarded a cash prize and the opportunity of a lifetime: a summer-long showcase in one of downtown’s most iconic locations (photos below). This year, we’re keeping the premise but upping the prize amount to $1000.

NYC-based BFA and MFA students (as well as recent graduates) can apply to the 2026 competition by simply submitting four original, 2D artworks via a form you’ll be sent upon registration. If you’re selected as a finalist, we’ll give you a ring in April to talk over logistics. Read more in the official guidelines.

Applications are due March 31, 2026.

REGISTER TO ENTER

MFA and BFA students enrolled at NYC-based art and design programs, plus recent graduates.
Students and graduates of nearby institutions (NYU, Cooper Union, the New School, New York Studio School) are especially encouraged to apply.
Register by clicking the button below to automatically receive an application.
Finalists will be contacted in April to discuss logistics.
Submit four digital files of custom or existing work.
There is no prompt nor content specifications.
Because designs will be printed on vinyl wrappers, 2D mediums are best suited.
- March 2: Submissions Open
- March 31: Application Deadline
- May 6-7: Unveiling & Dedication