The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (CAH) is proud to unveil DC Art Now 2026, an exhibition that showcases the finalists for the Fiscal Year 2027 Art Bank Program and marks the program’s 40th anniversary. The event highlights the Commission’s long‑standing commitment to supporting local visual artists and bringing original artwork into public spaces throughout the District.
Opening reception and public tours
The exhibition opens with a public reception on Thursday, September 10, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the CAH Eye Street Gallery, located at 200 I (Eye) Street SE. Attendees will have the chance to meet the participating artists, view the new works, and celebrate four decades of the Art Bank’s impact on the city’s cultural landscape.
For the first time, the celebration includes a guided tour of the actual Art Bank Vault. Tours are offered on a first‑come, first‑served basis, giving the public a rare behind‑the‑scenes look at the collection that now exceeds 3,000 pieces.
Why the Art Bank matters to Washington families
Established in 1986, the Art Bank Program purchases original works from DC artists and places them in government buildings, from city halls to agency offices. By situating art in everyday workplaces, the program ensures that the District’s diverse neighborhoods and communities are reflected in a living visual history.
CAH Curator Michelle May‑Curry, Ph.D., noted, “So much has changed about the District in the last 40 years. The Art Bank Collection preserves and supports the work of local artists, documenting DC’s evolving identity while bringing joy to staff who often describe the installations as an ‘art Christmas.’”
Arts Collection Registrar Luisa Hammond added, “Installing these pieces provides employees with moments of respite and inspiration during their workday. The excitement on installation days proves how vital visual art is to energizing the workplaces of those who serve the District.”
Exhibition details
DC Art Now 2026 will remain on view at the Eye Street Gallery through December 2026. The gallery is free and open to the public Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Visitors can RSVP for the opening reception via the short link provided by the Commission.
By celebrating the Art Bank’s 40‑year legacy, the exhibition underscores the importance of public art as a bridge between creators and the broader community, reinforcing the District’s commitment to cultural vitality and family‑friendly civic engagement.
Original reporting: The Washington Informer — read the source article.
