ARE YOU A CREATIVE WITH A PASSION FOR THE CITY OF ALBANY?

This contest was made just for you.

WHAT IS IT?

The Harlem Renaissance Project proudly announces the launch of In Every Renaissance the Artists Lead the Way.  A brand-new design competition, this contest calls on creatives of all ages and backgrounds to submit original art that reflects the spirit of Albany, Georgia’s historic Harlem neighborhood — once a thriving business district and now the focus of a bold community revitalization movement aimed at improving life for all citizens of Albany.  This is an opportunity for the community to feel a sense of ownership and to be a part of this movement for restoration in a meaningful way.  Your creative talent will help define it in a way that only those who love Albany can do.  Designers will be part of something bigger: a cultural revival rooted in legacy, led by vision, and powered by creativity.

This contest isn’t just about fashion— it’s about reclaiming identity, restoring community, and reinvigorating pride through art. Winning designs will be featured on Harlem Renaissance Project merchandise, with proceeds supporting the redevelopment of Albany’s Harlem district, including the new Harlem Legacy Wellness Center opening December 2025.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?

The Harlem Renaissance Project will name four Fall 2025 Honorary Creative Directors.  This is your chance to heighten your profile and showcase your talent while uplifting your community.  What Creative Directors inspire you? Maria Grazia Chiuri, Pharrell Williams, Virgil Abloh, Coco Chanel, Dapper Dan, Sarah Burton, or maybe Gordon Parks?  Let’s not forget Ray Charles: the world-renowned creative genius and one of Albany’s most famous natives!

Now it’s YOUR turn to inspire others.  

Here’s How You Enter the Competition

Step 1

Follow @albanyharlemrenaissance on Instagram or on Facebook @albanyharlemrenaissanceproject

Step 2

Attend an Instagram or Facebook Live informational session to truly grasp the history, the legacy, and the revival that fuels the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance Project.

Step 3

Send us a direct message that says “I want to enter.” We’ll reply to you with a private link.

Step 4

Enter as soon as possible so that you’re in the loop to get updates!  You must then come back to submit your final artwork by September 15, 2025 no later than 11:59 PM ET.

Important! Please Choose a Creative Theme to Build Your Design

(One winner per theme)

One City. One Voice. One Design.

A unifying rally cry that highlights the power of collective expression through Albany’s cultural legacy.  Whether you were raised on the southside, eastside, westside, northside, came here as a college student or as an adult- we are one.  What do we all want for OUR community that brings us together?

From Harlem with Heart: Albany’s Creative Comeback

Our rebirth as a city is in motion. What will your love letter to the city say?  Inspire us by taking us back and then bringing us forward with excitement for the future.

Art of the Comeback: The Harlem Renaissance Project Challenge

Speaks to our resilience, our unity, and our artistry — we’ve always been unique.  Some things are just so Albany.  Tell the story in only the way that you can.

Crowned in Color: A Harlem Renaissance Tribute

Blends culture, royalty, creativity, and the deep pride felt in Albany’s roots.  Tell the personal story of what Albany means to you through vivid visuals.

Key Dates 

AUGUST 18th

Entries open on Aug 18 • Deadline Sep 15 (11:59 PM ET)

SEPTEMBER 15th

Enter Now and Submit Final Artwork by September 15th

OCTOBER 18th

Winner Reveal & Community Mural Oct 18 (12:00 PM) at The District at Harlem (Albany State University Homecoming weekend)

Recognition

Four winners, one per theme, will receive the honor of being named Harlem Renaissance Project Creative Director Fall 2025.  Winners will be featured in press + social and honored at the Oct 18th event.

Be A Volunteer

Here’s how you can get involved:

  • Spread the Word – Share our posts, talk to your friends, and invite others to enter the contest or attend our events.

  • Support the Cause – Shop Harlem Renaissance Project merchandise (featuring winning designs!) to help fund the Harlem Legacy Wellness Center.

  • Offer Your Skills – From photography to social media to event setup, your talents can help shape the future of the project.

“Whether you’re an artist, a storyteller, a student, or just someone who wants to see Albany’s Harlem district thrive again, we need your hands, your heart, and your voice.”