Formerly called the Emerging Artist Grant, this program funds the professional career advancement of artists living and working in Bloomington, Indiana, and may be used for any expenses related to their work as an artist. Artists may practice any generally recognized art form, including but not limited to music, visual arts, performing arts, film, architecture, literature, etc.
Application is open through Monday, May 19 through Friday, June 27, 2025 at 11:59pm EST.
Eligibility Criteria
Artists must be age 18 and up and may or may not have formal training in their artistic discipline. Artists may work individually or in collaborative groups with other artists.
Recipients are eligible to receive the Artistic Advancement Grant twice. Prior Emerging Artist and Artistic Advancement grant awards count toward this total.
Funds
Grants are up to $2,000 and require no matching funds from the grantee. Funds must be spent by December 31, 2026.
Evaluation Criteria
- Quality of work - Does the work demonstrate a serious engagement with art-making?
- Commitment - Does the artist demonstrate commitment to advancing their practice professionally?
Before Applying
We recommend you review the following documents:
Bloomington Arts Commissioners will offer office hours for applicants on a first-come, first-served basis for anyone interested in discussing the application process during the application period. Please contact Holly Warren, Assistant Director for the Arts and Staff Liaison to the Bloomington Arts Commission, holly.warren@bloomington.in.gov, to schedule an appointment with a commissioner.
Awards will be announced in August 2025 and disbursed in September 2025.