The Doris Duke Foundation believes that the most effective illustration of the power of the performing arts to positively impact our society is found in the vital work of artists themselves. Since 2012, the Doris Duke Artist Awards have granted over $40 million to leading contemporary dance, jazz, and theater artists. As the largest prize of its kind in the United States, the awards uniquely recognize artists as both individuals and creative workers. The 2026 recipients are Allison Orr and Tomeka Reid (dance), Val Jeanty (Val-Inc) and Makaya McCraven (jazz), and Aleshea Harris and Yara Travieso (theater).

Building on the identity that launched with last year’s awards, Pentagram has created a colorful campaign that highlights the 2026 honorees. Timed to May Day, the program centers on the theme “Creative Labor, Creative Conditions,” promoting the idea that those who make art—artists—are often overlooked, and their labor is taken for granted, but they deserve the same protections and support as other workers. Powerful typography is combined with striking portraits of the artists by the photographer Erik Carter. The campaign includes digital kiosks and a massive dynamic digital display in Times Square.

The campaign also incorporates the Doris Duke Foundation identity designed by Pentagram, which features a bold dimensional “D” with a dynamic counter that swings through the space of the letter.