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
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.
Through our annual international juried art competitions, including the Chelsea International Fine Art Competition (CIFAC), the Chelsea International Photography Competition (CIPC), and themed open competitions, we celebrate artistic excellence, foster cultural exchange, and amplify the voices of artists and photographers from around the world.
Our Story: New York Art Competitions & Miki Stiles
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.
Championing artistic excellence and fostering a global creative community — since 1984.
To further support artists, she launched the first juried art competition, providing a prestigious 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 the Metropolitan Melodies Competition and Identity in the Modern World.
After Stiles' passing in 2000, her son carried on her mission, relocating Agora Gallery to Chelsea in 2002 and solidifying its role in New York's premier art district.
Today, New York Art Competitions continues to uphold her vision, championing artistic excellence and fostering a global creative community.
Exhibit Your Work at Agora Gallery in Chelsea, New York
Our international juried art competitions offer a concrete path to recognition: a New York exhibition credit, jury selection, cash prizes, and year-long visibility on ARTmine.com. Here is what entering means for your career:
Here is what participating in our competitions can offer:
Gain International Recognition
Be part of a prestigious event that showcases exceptional talent and attracts art enthusiasts worldwide. Share your vision and join a community that inspires.
Network and Collaborate
Connect with fellow artists and industry professionals, fostering lifelong connections and opportunities.
Enhance Your Portfolio
Showcase your work in a renowned gallery, boosting your artistic profile and career prospects.
Testimonials
In their words
Selected artists on exhibiting with New York Art Competitions.
It was a “wow” moment to display my work alongside artists from different countries — enriching from start to finish.
Well-organized and professional throughout. I look forward to future exhibitions.
A very positive experience — thoughtfully arranged, with an impressive turn-out at the opening.
A super show. It looked fabulous and the reception was very well attended.