​The 31st Young Artists Debut! Young Artists Debut! Concert & Showcase  on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at The Reser will feature talented artists between the ages of 10 to 18.

Could one of those artists be you? YES!

 

We are seeking exceptional visual artists (including, but not limited to painters, filmmakers, graphic designers, ceramists, cartoonists, etc.), performing artists (dancers, singers, musicians, actors, poets, etc.), and 3-to-6-member performing ensembles (jazz, classical, rock, etc.!

 

Among other awesome benefits, Winners:

• Earn the prestige of becoming a Young Artist Debut! Winner and receive a $100 honorarium.

• Are eligible to receive the first Deveney “Zorro” Award and $1,000 to further artistic endeavors. 

• Will participate in arts-centric educational mentoring sessions with YAD! judges, brainstorming sessions with other winning artists, and having their artistry professionally photographed and recorded.

• Will participate in the Young Artists Debut! Concert & Showcase at The Reser on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

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All who apply:

• Receive feedback on their application from YAD! judges.

• The opportunity to apply to earn volunteer hours or Intern with Cognizart.

• Gain priority access to Cognizart programs including 360 Arts Camp and The Arts Backstage.

 

Simplified application process for artists 10 to 18!

Visual Artist Application

For all visual artists including, but not limited to: ceramists, painters, cartoonists, graphic artists, filmmakers, multimedia artists.

 

Performing Artist Application

For solo performing artists including, but not limited to: musicians, dancers, actors, singers, and poets. NOTE: Judges may group solo finalists together to form ensembles.

 

Ensemble Application

This application should be used for ensembles of 3-to-6 members. This can be for musicians (classical, jazz, rock,  etc.), dancers, and actors. Each member of the ensemble will need to complete their own application and pay their own application fee. 

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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What is the application fee?

The nonrefundable application fee is $50 per artist. If your family receives SNAP or WIC benefits, you may email your determination letter to shannon@cognizart.org and we will waive the application fee. 

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Why did you extend the application deadline?

We extended the application deadline due to the numerous questions received and to simplify and clarify the process. We want all artists to be able to apply - that's why we expanded the program!

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Can  I record my introduction separately from my performance and it not be considered a "splice"?

Absolutely! Our goal is to see you perform one piece from start to finish..

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I am a soloist with multiple pieces I would like to submit. Which should I apply with?

We recommend applying with a piece that is public domain and between 4 and 6 minutes. If you have more than one piece you would like to submit, artists may submit multiple applications and application fees for consideration. Please note that judges may put soloists with other artists to form ensembles to allow more artists to participate in the Young Artists Debut! Concert & Showcase on May 21st.

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What are the age restrictions for the Young Artists Debut!

Artists between the ages of 10 and 18 are encouraged to apply. If artists are slightly younger, some exceptions may be made. We also consider singers up to age 21.

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Are there regional boundaries to participate?

Yes. Because we will be doing in person events where artists are required to participate, we require artists to reside within 1 hour of the Portland Metro area.

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What pieces should I include in my Visual Arts video portfolio? Do they have to be new pieces?

We recommend sharing the pieces you are most proud of that reflect your viewpoint as an artist. If you are a painter, or ceramist, it would also be nice to add a bit of the the evolution of your artwork. Your pieces may be showcased in the lobby of The Reser on May 21st. 

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I am a solo classical musician not a part of an ensemble? In which category should I apply?

We are encouraging classical ensembles of three to six members. However, soloists may also apply using the Performing Artist Application. Please note that all artists who apply as soloist will perform as soloist with no accompaniment.

 

I am a musician/singer/dancer and the piece I want to perform is not public domain. Can I apply using it anyway?

Yes. You may apply using the piece. However, we are unable to record the performance due to copyright issues.  

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I am a dancer and want to apply with a piece I did not choregraph myself. Can I do so?

Yes, you may apply using a piece you did not choregraph. Make sure to properly credit the choreographer in your application and we will credit them accordingly.

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I need help! What is the best way to reach Cognizart?

Text 503-482-9322

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Please note: The photos and videos below are from the previous version of the Young Artists Debut! that only featured classical artists at The Reser. The program has been expanded this year to include multidisciplinary artists.