New York, NY – Ever dreamed of seeing your artwork displayed in a New York City museum? The AKC Museum of the Dog is inviting members to unleash their creativity in the return of the beloved Dog Days of Summer Members Art Competition, a juried exhibition celebrating artistic talent and the enduring inspiration of dogs.
Open to visual artists working in any medium, the competition invites Museum members from across the country to submit original works that capture the beauty, personality, spirit, and joy of dogs. Entries will be evaluated by a panel of jurors based on creativity, artistic quality, and a demonstrated affinity for canine-centered art.
Twenty selected works will be featured in a special exhibition at the AKC Museum of the Dog from July 16 through September 27, 2026, offering artists the rare opportunity to have their work displayed in the nation’s premier institution dedicated to celebrating the human-canine bond. During the exhibition, Museum visitors will cast daily votes for their favorite artwork, adding a spirited public element to the competition. The “Best in Show” will be announced on September 17th.
“We are thrilled to see all the incredible talent from across the country once again.” says Alan Fausel, Curator for the AKC Museum of the Dog. “We are always promoting ways to celebrate the beauty, personality, and spirit of dogs through art and being able to connect with our members in this unique way makes it even more special.”
“One of the greatest joys of the Museum is continually discovering the extraordinary talent that exists within our community of dog lovers,” said Christopher E. Bromson, CEO of the AKC Museum of the Dog. “Dog Days of Summer offers a beautiful opportunity to celebrate not only artistic expression, but the deep affection and inspiration that dogs bring to our lives. It is especially meaningful to see our members come together, united by creativity, community, and a profound love for the species that enriches our world in countless ways.”
Submissions are open now through June 16, 2026. Artists interested in participating can learn more about eligibility, submission guidelines, and contest rules here.
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Founded in 1982, The AKC Museum of the Dog is dedicated to the collection, preservation, exhibition, and interpretation of the art, artifacts, and literature of the dog for the purposes of education, historical perspective, aesthetic enjoyment and to enhance the appreciation for and knowledge of the significance of the dog and the human/canine relationship. The museum is home to over 1700 original paintings, drawings, watercolors, prints, sculptures, bronzes, and porcelain figurines, a variety of decorative arts objects and interactive displays depicting man’s best friend throughout the ages. The AKC Museum of the Dog is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization funded mainly by private and corporate gift donations.
For more information on the AKC Museum of the Dog visit www.Museumofthedog.org
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