2023

Making Work Visible—A Labor Arts Contest

This contest is about work and workers. Written entries (poems and essays) need to include a link to an illustration (there are many choices). Keep in mind that paid work and labor unions are only part of the story—entries about unpaid work, immigration, family, and community are also encouraged.

When? The December 11, 2023 deadline has passed. Check back in January to see the winning work.

Who? Open to CUNY undergraduates.

What? Four categories – Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry, and Art

Prizes in EACH category – First place $1,000, Second Place $500, Third Place $250

Written entries need a link to an image related to the themes in the writing. The image can be one of the images below, OR one of the images from the LaborArts gallery, exhibits, or collections OR you can provide your own image.

Visual art entries need a paragraph (100–250 words) explaining how the work shares the Labor Arts spirit. The statement must include information about the medium (painting, collage, sculpture, etc) and the artistic tradition in which you are working.

Judging? Entries are judged according to originality, content, and style, by professors who teach undergraduates at CUNY. Successful entries show thoughtful, original work on subjects relevant to work, to the experiences of working people, and to the labor movement.

Questions? Contact Patrick Kavanagh at mwv@brooklyn.cuny.edu