As the world continues to grapple with the effects of the global pandemic, artists everywhere continue to search for ways to support their creative pursuits sustainably. Thankfully, countless organizations throughout the U.S. and beyond continue to offer vital financial assistance through grants, fellowships, and residencies.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most lucrative artist grant opportunities available in 2023—namely those offered by the Helene Wurlitzer Foundation and the Gottlieb Foundation.
Helene Wurlitzer Foundation Residencies
One of the most sought-after artist grant opportunities for 2023 comes from the Helene Wurlitzer Foundation. The foundation offers residencies under its General Program for visual and interdisciplinary artists, creative writers, choreographers, and dancers. Successful applicants will receive a full fellowship which includes a monthly stipend, on-site living accommodations, a private workspace, and access to the stunning landscapes of Taos, New Mexico.
The application window will open in the spring of 2023, allowing plenty of time for artists to prepare for the opportunity. To be considered for the residency, you will need to demonstrate artistic excellence, sound mental and physical health, a passion for exploring the flavor of the Southwest, and an appreciation for the power of solitude.
Gottlieb Foundation Individual Support Grant
Another highly competitive artist grant opportunity in 2023 comes from the Gottlieb Foundation Individual Support Grant. This grant provides up to $15,000 of unrestricted funding to painters, sculptors, and their estates who have been practicing professionally for at least 20 years. Additionally, the award can be used to cover both the costs of materials and living expenses, making it the perfect opportunity for the financially strapped artist.
The application period usually runs late in the fall, and applicants must submit a current resume, exhibition history, three letters of recommendation, samples of work, and a personal statement. Previous winners include prominent artists like Kehinde Wiley and Jina Valentine, so brush up on your portfolio and practice your interview skills before submitting your application.
Fiscally Sponsored Artist Grants
The Fiscally Sponsored Artists Program provides grants of up to $5,000 to qualified visual and media artists experiencing medical emergencies. The program seeks to offer these financial resources as a way of easing the pressure on artists who may find themselves facing financial hardship while they recover from a medical emergency.
To qualify for the program, applicants must demonstrate that they have experienced financial and/or medical hardships in the past year and are diving into their art form.
The application process for the program is straightforward. First, applicants must provide proof of their medical emergency, including medical bills, current medical prescriptions, or other evidence demonstrating their medical hardships.
Additionally, applicants must supply documentation of their artistic practice, such as a resume, portfolio, performance/exhibition history, or other relevant experience. The entire process can take as little as one week to complete.
Public Artwork Proposal - International
When it comes to public artwork, opportunities for funding to help realize your project can take a lot of work. However, various organizations fund such works of art if you search around. From local councils in cities and towns to international groups like the Public Art Network and the Global Cultural Districts Network, grants and other forms of funding are available to those who demonstrate creativity, ambition, and professionalism in their application.
It’s also worth checking what regional funding is available in your area, as this could help you start on your public artwork.
Visual Arts Grants - US
In the United States, grants are available from both federal and private sources. However, it’s important to remember that while government-funded grants tend to be larger, they are also often highly competitive.
Private foundations, however, often have fewer applicants and may be easier to secure. Some organizations to look into for visual arts grants include the National Endowment for the Arts, the Joan Mitchell Foundation, and the Jerome Foundation. Also, consider whether you are eligible for state-level funding, as this could provide additional support for your project.
Utilize Causability's Art Grants Program
Causability is a platform for crowdfunding. We are committed to connecting supporters with the causes that are important to them.
We provide $2,500 collaborative creator grants to artists who want to work with a nonprofit organization to develop a specific art program. These grants are available only in Oklahoma County, OK, and Dallas County, TX.
If you are ready to apply for a Causability grant, click here to get started right away!
