Submissions Open for 2025 Dr. Jerry Hiura Inspirational Awards
Now accepting submissions until September 8, 2025!
Featured art by Dr. Jerry Hiura
Contemporary Asian Theater Scene (CATS) is proud to announce the Dr. Jerry Hiura Inspiration Award 2025, a celebration of young Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) artists who embody the spirit of creativity, community, and transformation through the arts.
About the Dr. Jerry Hiura Inspirational Awards
Established in honor of our late co-founder, Dr. Jerry Hiura—a poet, artist, jewelry maker, and musician—the Dr. Jerry Inspirational Awards celebrate his legacy of supporting Asian American Pacific Islanders (AAPI) in the arts.
Learn more about Dr. Jerry Hiura and his legacy here.
2025 Theme: The Transformative Power of Art
This year’s artistic challenge, titled “The Transformative Power of Art,” invites emerging artists to reflect on how art can connect, influence, and spark meaningful change in themselves, their communities, and the world. From performance to painting, poetry to film, this is an opportunity to share how your work speaks to something bigger.
Submission Details
Eligibility
Emerging AAPI artists aged 14–29
Must be from or based in the Bay Area
Open to all disciplines: performance, visual, written, dance, film, music, and more
Projects must address this year’s theme: The Transformative Power of Art
Submission Deadline: September 8, 2025
Winner Announcement: October 1, 2025
Cash awards will be given, with a grand prize of $1,500
Through the Dr. Jerry Hiura Inspirational Awards, we aim to continue his mission by encouraging and supporting the next generation of AAPI artists.
