OVERARCHING THEME: 2024 – 2025
Legacies of Power: Access, Identity, and the Forces That Shape Our World
This two-year exploration examined the enduring legacies of colonialism and imperialism in shaping modern systems of power, opportunity, and identity. From the emerging dynamics of techno-feudalism to the barriers and pathways of access, artists were invited to interrogate the structures that define our world. Through diverse perspectives, this overarching theme sought to illuminate the forces that sustain inequality and inspire bold visions of inclusion and equity in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Yearly Theme Submissions
Each year focused on a distinct aspect of this overarching theme. 2024 explored Techno-Feudalism, while 2025 examined Access. Artists were invited to submit works that aligned with each year’s focus, contributing to a dynamic and thought-provoking exploration of the forces shaping individual and collective experiences.
Note: While submissions aligned with our theme were preferred, we also accepted non-theme-related works.
2024 THEME: TECHNO-FEUDALISM
THE ARTISTS FORUM invited artists to showcase interpretations for the phrase: Techno-Feudalism.
Techno-Feudalism, a recently coined term by Greek economist and politician Yanis Varoufakis, refers to the transformation of capitalism by tech platforms and the exploitation of the labor force through new technologies. In this system, workers are expected to provide their own infrastructure—such as computers, car repairs, insurance, or other tools—necessary to perform their jobs, while employers reap the profits. This model highlights a growing inequality, where workers must bear the costs of the very resources that enable them to work, further entrenching the power imbalance between labor and tech-driven capital.
Additionally, the theme acknowledged the existence of Tech-Deserts—areas where lack of reliable access to technology limits people’s ability to work, engage with digital platforms, or access information. These disparities restrict opportunities for participation in the broader economy and society.
An expansion on this concept also included the manipulation of media to serve political agendas. For instance, bots used to create divisiveness on niche topics, fostering political unease or shaping public opinion through engineered content.
Note: While submissions aligned with our theme are preferred, we also accepted non-theme related works.
See Juried Competition finalists and winners: TAF Juried Arts Festival: 2024
See Film Fest official selections, nominees, and winners: TAF Festival of the Moving Image: 2024
2025 THEME: ACCESS
THE ARTISTS FORUM invited artists to showcase interpretations for the word: Access.
This theme explored the systems of power that shape inclusion and exclusion in society. By examining the barriers, opportunities, and struggles for equity, autonomy, and belonging, artists were encouraged to question who gains access, who is excluded, and what the consequences are.
Through this lens, the theme highlighted how historical and systemic legacies of power continue to impact individuals and communities. The theme sought works that challenge inequities, envision pathways to inclusion, and reflect on the transformative possibilities of expanding access in a rapidly evolving world.
The Call-For-Entries for our TAF Juried Arts Festival: 2025 in Spoken Word and Choreography began January 17th. View our 2025 Awards Listings via the links above.
The Call-For-Entries for our Festival of the Moving Image: 2025 began May 2025. View our 2025 Awards Listings on that page.
Theme Graphic promotional images are from these award-winning works:
1: “Crucifiga” by Erika O’Neill & Simon Hjortek
2: “Where are You Really From?” by Carlos Andres Gomez
3: “Right : Now” by Xiaoyuan Zhang
4: “Memo Inc.” by the Neymarc Brothers
5: Loft and Found” by Pete O’Hare, Phillip Kibbe, and Zach Weiss
THE ARTISTS FORUM JURIED ARTS COMPETITIONS are open to artists of multiple genres seeking to gain exposure in the New York City and international music and media markets.
Its mission is to provide an accessible platform for creators to present their best work for juried selection, increase artist communication and business contacts, provide career advancement opportunities, and publicly acknowledge talented artists in an industry-saturated arena.
Each submission, reviewed by a panel of industry professionals, is rated upon its individual merits. Finalists in each category are judged against one another and a winner declared.
All selected finalists are eligible for a television studio or Zoom interview to be promoted on our online platforms and via THE ARTISTS FORUM TELEVISION – a 25+ year arts based television program broadcasted from mid-town Manhattan in New York City.
THE ARTISTS FORUM is a New York City based non-profit arts service organization specializing in events, juried competitions, and media for artists. The organization provides an unparalleled platform for emerging and mid-career artists to share their stories with the world’s creative communities.
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