shared dialogue, shared space

Korea Art Forum (KAF) is excited to announce a special open call for their 2026 Shred Dialogue, Shared Space initiative (SDSS). They invite artists from the New York metropolitan area to submit proposals for participatory art projects that foster public engagement, encourage dialogue, and inspire a shared sense of community.

SDSS is Korea Art Forum’s flagship initiative, and provides a platform to support artists in creating innovative and thought-provoking works in community hubs such as parks, streets, and plazas throughout New York City, amplifying diverse artistic voices and perspectives in public spaces. Since 2020, over 49 artists have brought their work to under-served neighborhoods. By expanding access to art, SDSS fosters cultural engagement and serves as a catalyst for strengthening the art ecosystem in marginalized neighborhoods.

SDSS consists of nine outdoor Saturday participatory art events of social engagement, culminating in public art installations within remote, underserved, and immigrant communities, as well as an indoor exhibition at a gallery or vacant storefront at the end of the year.

We are open to a range of projects that include hands-on art-making, participatory movement, observation, and theater. Projects generally have these characteristics:

Work based off the artist’s established process, concepts, or concerns:

• Prompt inter-generational conversations among participants and artist
• Easily portable and on view for up to 8 hours
• Fun and engaging to all ages
• May teach or model new skills or ways of looking at the world
• Leads to a culminating public art installation at the end of the program

Locations

KAF works with the NYC Parks Department, NYC Department of Transportation, and local community-based organizations, such as MinKwon Center in Flushing, Queens, and South Bronx Unite in Mott Haven, South Bronx, to secure locations to share work. 2026 SDSS will be presented in Flushing, Harlem, Bronx, and Brooklyn.

The Artist will:

• Work to develop their initial concept into a practical and realizable project
• Obtains materials and tests processes
• Present their project in-person at nine Saturday events from April - September
• Present a final, culminating outdoor public art installation
• Participate in an indoor exhibition at a gallery or storefront space
• Adapts the project as needed

Timeline

• January - Mar, 2026: Projects Developed
• April, 2026: Projects Approved
• April – Sept, 2026: Projects Presented Outdoors
• Oct – Nov, 2026: Outdoor Public Art Installation
• Dec, 2026: Indoor Exhibition and Catalogue Complete