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DCU Arts and Culture
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Open Call: DCU Student Creative Showcase for Black History Month 2026

Dublin City University students are invited to submit their work for an upcoming campus-wide Creative Showcase, hosted by the DCU Student Union in partnership with DCU Arts and Culture.

Designed to highlight the vast spectrum of student talent across all campuses, the exhibition is open to submissions from all academic disciplines, backgrounds, and experience levels.

Submission Details

  • Who Can Apply: All currently enrolled DCU students.
  • What Can Be Submitted: 2D Artwork: Flat-surface works only (paintings, drawings, prints, or digital illustrations) in A2, A3, or A4 sizes. Written Work: Poetry submissions
  • Submission Deadline: Sunday, 20th of September at 12am
  • Exhibition Dates: October 5th - 30th (The Hive, Glasnevin campus) – Monday, 2nd - 14th Cregan Library, (St Patrick’s campus)
  • How to Apply: Submit your entry and artist statement online at Google Form

Empowering Creativity Across Campus 

The showcase initiative is spearheaded by Angelina Zhao, Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion 26/27, who wants to create an inclusive space where every student feels empowered to express themselves.

"We wanted to create a platform where every student voice feels valued, regardless of what they study or whether they’ve exhibited work before," says Angelina Zhao, Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion . "This showcase is all about breaking down barriers to creative expression on campus, celebrating our diverse community, and giving students a welcoming space to share their unique perspectives."

The initiative builds on ongoing efforts by DCU Arts and Culture to expand creative opportunities for the entire student body.

"We’re so thrilled to support Angelina and the Students Union in the planning of this wonderful event," says Marcella Bannon, DCU Cultural Arts Officer. "It will be supported by new 'how-to' resources that we developed with our Office of Student Life colleagues in 25/26 to help guide students who want to be creative on campus but aren't sure where to start, what’s required, or how to make their exhibition the best it can be. Angelina has a wonderful vision, and we cannot wait to see the talent that comes through."

Media & Submission Contact: Angelina Zhao, Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion angelina.zhao@dcu.ie