An art and education program called Embracing Our Differences Michigan offers artists the opportunity to create and display works focusing on diversity, equity and inclusion. Organizations planning the 2026 exhibit are seeking submissions until Jan. 30, 2026.
Nancy Margolis, the program's executive director, said submitting artists are encouraged to address the theme for the new exhibit: "Enriching Our Lives Through Diversity."
“Art can be transformative," Margolis said. "Preparing art about differences and inclusion helps the artist and others gain a greater understanding of ways that diversity enhances their life."
Submissions can be displayed through visual art or short-form writing, such as quotes or slogans. Anyone interested in participating in the 2026 exhibit can visit Embracing Our Differences Michigan for details, but the project is open to artists of all ages, skill levels and regions.
The 2025 exhibit featured 44 art installations divided between Ypsilanti's Riverside Park, at 2 East Cross St., and Ann Arbor's Gallup Park, 3323 Geddes Road. The outdoor installation was taken down Oct. 30. All of the pieces can be viewed on the Embracing Our Differences Michigan website under the 2025 digital exhibit.
Any community members interested in receiving the 2025 exhibit artworks, for free, can reach out to the program. Margolis hopes schools and businesses will show interest in taking the billboard-sized banners.
“We would like to expand this program into the out-county, ... Chelsea, Dexter, Milan, Saline,” Margolis said, referring to the future of Embracing Our Differences Michigan program.
