National Academy of Design

The National Academy of Design has announced that 12 artists and architects from across the United States have been elected as National Academicians in the Class of 2026. Recognized for their contributions to contemporary American art and architecture, this year’s class of newly elected Academicians includes GRAY artist Candida Alvarez. 

The annual nomination and election of National Academicians dates back to the National Academy’s founding in 1825 as the United States’ first artist- and architect-led organization. New Academicians are nominated and elected by the current members of the National Academy, a community of 450+ artists and architects across the country.

A special exhibition featuring the work of the Classes of 2025 and 2026 National Academicians will be on view February 18-May 15, 2027, at the National Academy’s gallery at 519 West 26th Street, 2nd floor, New York City.