Alyssa and Douglas Graham embody a unique vision of supporting contemporary art. This American-born artist, musician and patron couple has carved out a niche for themselves in the visual arts world thanks to their dual roles as accomplished artists and fervent defenders of culture. Through their artistic work and their philanthropic commitment, they make it a point of honor to promote innovation, creativity and multidisciplinary interaction.
In 2010, the Grahams founded the DAG Foundation , an organization dedicated to supporting emerging and established artists. The foundation is distinguished by its holistic approach, providing not only opportunities for visibility, but also concrete means of recognition for artists of all backgrounds.
One of the pillars of their mission is to foster interactions between various art forms, from visual arts to music, performance and installations. This multidisciplinary perspective has allowed the DAG Foundation to attract visionary talents and contribute significantly to the evolution of the international art scene.
A Revolutionary Initiative: Supporting Mid-Career Artists
In 2025, the DAG Foundation launched a groundbreaking initiative to address a persistent gap in support for mid-career visual artists. This new $20,000 award, designed to recognize exceptional talent at a critical juncture in their careers, addresses an often-overlooked stage in the art world.
Eligibility Criteria
The award is open to visual artists residing in the United States who can demonstrate a consistent body of work and a sustained commitment to their artistic practice. The goal is to recognize those who, although they have moved beyond the emerging stage, do not always receive the recognition needed to take a decisive step in their careers.
An Inclusive and Transparent Process
The selection of the winners is based on a rigorous and inclusive process. A panel of experts, composed of curators, art critics and established artists, evaluates the submissions according to strict criteria: originality, impact and technical mastery. The emphasis on inclusion ensures that artists from diverse cultural backgrounds and artistic disciplines have a fair chance to participate and shine.