Best Grants for Visual Artists in Colorado

The Luce/ACLS Dissertation Fellowships in American Art support graduate students conducting research on the history of art and visual culture in the U.S., including Native American art. These fellowships aim to enhance diversity in academia by welcoming applications from PhD candidates at all degree-granting institutions in the U.S. The program offers a stipend of $38,000 plus a travel and research allowance, with a total award of $42,000 for a nine to twelve-month period between July 2025 and May 2027.

The CSA Scholars’ Roundtable Honor recognizes individuals who exemplify excellence in costume scholarship. Since its establishment in 1997, it fosters dynamic discussions on pertinent costume scholarship issues during the CSA National Symposium. Nominees are evaluated based on their innovative experiences, insights into scholarly topics, and ability to collaborate effectively. This initiative not only celebrates scholarship but also encourages interdisciplinary dialogue and engagement among scholars in the field.

The Gallery Collection invites students aged 14 and older to participate in the Annual Create-A-Greeting Card Scholarship contest. The winner will receive a $10,000 scholarship and have their artwork featured on a card sold by the company. This competition is open to high school, college, and university students, as well as home-schooled students, who are legal residents of the U.S. and its territories. Don't miss this opportunity to showcase your talent!

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Joan Mitchell Fellowship supports 15 US-based artists in painting and sculpture with $60,000 over five years. It offers crucial financial resources, skills development, and community building. The fellowship also includes workshops, consultations, and opportunities for residencies, particularly for those in their fourth year or beyond. The program emphasizes diversity, encouraging nominations from underrepresented artists to foster a rich cultural discourse in the arts.

The Andy Warhol Foundation's Arts Writers Grant supports writers engaging with contemporary visual art through various formats, including articles, books, and short-form writing. Grants range from $15,000 to $50,000, catering to both emerging and established writers. Eligible applicants must be individuals over 25, U.S. citizens or residents, and published authors. This initiative encourages critical discourse and interdisciplinary approaches in arts writing, particularly related to post-World War II visual art and its diverse contexts.

The INSITE Fund, administered by RedLine Contemporary Art Center, offers $60,000 in grants for artist-driven projects in Colorado. This fund supports innovative visual arts initiatives that engage the community and challenge traditional norms. By providing accessible funding, INSITE cultivates artistic expression and social engagement, aiming to highlight under-supported artistic activities. Grants range from $5,000 to $10,000, with projects to be completed within 12 months and presented in public spaces, enhancing community connections through art.

The Illuminations Grant for Black Trans Women Visual Artists, a $10,000 annual grant, supports early-career Black trans women artists in the U.S. whose contributions to visual arts are often overlooked. Established in partnership with notable figures, this grant not only provides funding but also offers professional development resources. In its fifth year, it aims to address systemic barriers and enhance representation in the arts, with additional awards for finalists to further their artistic journeys.

The Elaine Ehlers Arts Scholarship, established in 2002, offers $5,000 to graduating high school seniors in New Jersey who demonstrate artistic excellence in various disciplines such as dance, drama, visual arts, or music. The scholarship is awarded based on a panel's evaluation of work samples and character. This initiative honors Elaine Ehlers' legacy, promoting arts education and supporting students pursuing their creative passions at accredited institutions.

The Eugenie Coladarci Arts Scholarship, offered by Morris Arts, awards $1,500 to graduating high school seniors in New Jersey who demonstrate artistic excellence in various disciplines such as dance, drama, visual arts, or music. Applicants are evaluated by a panel of experts based on their work samples, essays, and dedication to the arts. The scholarship directly supports tuition at the chosen college or arts program, continuing the legacy of Eugenie R. Coladarci, a passionate advocate for young artists.

The Ceramic and Glass Industry Foundation offers Project Grants of up to $2,500 to support innovative projects that enhance materials science education for the next generation of professionals. This grant aims to inspire creativity in training initiatives related to ceramics and glass, fostering community engagement. Eligible projects should focus on outreach and instructional activities, while ineligible requests include funding for research, equipment, or any commercial purposes. Join in advancing education in this vital field!

The Ceramic and Glass Industry Foundation offers Kit Grants for teachers and community members to enhance materials science education through outreach projects. Applicants can request various science kits, including Materials Science Classroom Kits, Mini Kits, and Glass Kits, while adhering to specific limitations. The foundation aims to inspire the next generation of ceramic and glass professionals, ensuring all projects align with educational goals and promote student engagement with science.

The Craft Artists Emergency Relief Grant provides $3,000 to U.S.-based individual craft artists aged 18 and older who are facing recent, unforeseen emergencies. Established by the Craft Emergency Relief Fund (CERF+) in 1985, this grant aims to empower artists during critical times, allowing them to use the funds as needed for recovery. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, ensuring timely support for artists in distress.

The CERF: Artist Get Ready Grant offers up to $1,000 to craft artists for safeguarding their studios and preparing for emergencies. Priority is given to underrepresented artists, including BIPOC and folk/traditional artists. Eligible activities encompass studio safety upgrades and disaster readiness. Applicants must be 18 years or older, residing in the U.S. for two years, and not have received this grant in the previous year. Funds must be used within six months, with outcomes documented for CERF+.

The Creative Capital Award, established in 1999, provides unrestricted project grants ranging from $15,000 to $50,000 for innovative artistic works in various disciplines. It supports artists in visual arts, performing arts, film, and literature through a democratic, open-call process. Awardees receive professional development resources and mentorship over a five-year relationship. Additionally, recipients are automatically considered for the State of the Art Prize, which offers a $10,000 grant to one artist from each U.S. state.

Social Impact Artist Award

Bonfils-Stanton Foundation and Denver Arts & Venues are proud to launch the Social Impact Artist Award. The award honors the outstanding contributions of three Denver-based artist collectives dedicated to championing positive impact and social justice through their artistic practice with a $50,000 award that includes $15,000 for a socially engaged project.

Socially engaged art serves as a powerful catalyst for positive change within communities, fostering connections, dialogue, and collective action. Collectives who work in partnership with local organizations and residents to co-create meaningful interventions and initiatives not only raise awareness about important issues but also empower individuals to become active participants in shaping their own communities. By fostering empathy and solidarity, these artistic interventions build bridges across divides and inspire collective action toward a more equitable and just society. Ultimately, socially engaged art reaffirms the intrinsic connection between creativity, community, and social change, demonstrating the transformative potential of art to shape the world we live in.

Program Goals:

• Support individual artists or artist collectives in Denver who are actively engaged in addressing social issues through their creative practice.
• Showcase the impact of socially engaged art in promoting dialogue, raising awareness about the cultural diversity in our city, and fostering partnerships and collaborations to support thriving communities.
• Prioritize and amplify the perspectives and experiences of artists and culture bearers who identify with historically marginalized communities.
• Elevate the profile of Denver as a center for socially conscious artistic expression and innovation.
• Encourage and provide project funding for artists to explore ways for the community to participate in, respond to, inform, and learn from their work.

How many $50,000 prizes will be awarded this year?

• Three artist collectives will be selected.

How are the funds issued to awardees?

Upon selection, the three (3) awardees must submit a W9 to Bonfils-Stanton Foundation for the $35,000 award as the foundation is required by the IRS to issue a 1099 to the individual for the amount. Members of artist collectives will split the $35,000 cash award evenly.

The project funds will be awarded separately through Denver Arts & Venues. Artist collectives will work together on a project with the allocated $15,000 budget.

Social Impact Artist Award

Bonfils-Stanton Foundation and Denver Arts & Venues are proud to launch the Social Impact Artist Award. The award honors the outstanding contributions of three Denver-based artists dedicated to championing positive impact and social justice through their artistic practice with a $50,000 award that includes $15,000 for a socially engaged project.

Socially engaged art serves as a powerful catalyst for positive change within communities, fostering connections, dialogue, and collective action. Artists who work in partnership with local organizations and residents to co-create meaningful interventions and initiatives not only raise awareness about important issues but also empower individuals to become active participants in shaping their own communities. By fostering empathy and solidarity, these artistic interventions build bridges across divides and inspire collective action toward a more equitable and just society. Ultimately, socially engaged art reaffirms the intrinsic connection between creativity, community, and social change, demonstrating the transformative potential of art to shape the world we live in.

Program Goals:

• Support individual artists in Denver who are actively engaged in addressing social issues through their creative practice.
• Showcase the impact of socially engaged art in promoting dialogue, raising awareness about the cultural diversity in our city, and fostering partnerships and collaborations to support thriving communities.
• Prioritize and amplify the perspectives and experiences of artists and culture bearers who identify with historically marginalized communities.
• Elevate the profile of Denver as a center for socially conscious artistic expression and innovation.
• Encourage and provide project funding for artists to explore ways for the community to participate in, respond to, inform, and learn from their work.

How many $50,000 prizes will be awarded this year?

• Three individual artists will be selected.

How are the funds issued to awardees?

Upon selection, the three (3) awardees must submit a W9 to Bonfils-Stanton Foundation for the $35,000 award as the foundation is required by the IRS to issue a 1099 to the individual for the amount.

The project funds will be awarded separately through Denver Arts & Venues. Individual artists will work together on a project with the allocated $15,000 budget.

The Marie Darlin Prize, administered by the Juneau-Douglas City Museum and overseen by the Juneau Community Foundation, honors exceptional artistic and scholarly works that reflect Southeast Alaska's cultural heritage. Awarded annually, the prize of $5,000 recognizes individuals or collaborations committed to the region's social and cultural history, community advocacy, and Indigenous identity. Eligible applicants include writers, visual artists, and performers who have produced significant works within the last five years.

The ASTR Brooks McNamara Publishing Subvention supports costs related to reproducing illustrations for publications, including securing rights and acquiring images. It is available to independent or affiliated scholars with terminal degrees who are ASTR members. The award offers up to $600, with preference given to junior scholars. Projects will be evaluated based on their merit within theatre, dance, and performance studies, as well as the scholar's research endeavors.

The AFI Grant, administered by the Adient Foundation, Inc., aims to support philanthropic organizations in the U.S. that are tax-exempt. While primarily offering one-time grants, the Foundation evaluates proposals based on organizational structure, community impact, and management capacity. The Foundation complements public institutions and does not guarantee future funding based on past contributions. Grantees must operate with equal opportunity objectives, and past recipients must submit new applications each year.

The AFI Grant, administered by the Adient Foundation, Inc., supports charitable organizations across the U.S. with a focus on philanthropic efforts. These one-time grants do not guarantee future funding, emphasizing a need for organizations to demonstrate sound management and community impact. Each year, past recipients must reapply under the standard application process, ensuring that support aligns with equal opportunity objectives and the Foundation's mission to complement public funding.

The Asian Cultural Council's Graduate Fellowship provides financial support for travel and living expenses to graduate students from Asia studying in the U.S. It offers $15,000 for one academic year, potentially renewable for another year, covering essential costs while pursuing full-time coursework. This initiative fosters international cultural exchange and enhances academic training in the arts. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited graduate programs and commit to at least two consecutive semesters of study.

The Asian Cultural Council's Individual Fellowship provides artists, scholars, and arts professionals from Asia and the United States with opportunities for self-directed cultural exchange and research in unfamiliar regions. This program supports activities such as interviews, workshops, and archival research, fostering cultural immersion and collaboration. With a funding limit of $35,000, the fellowship encourages innovative proposals that enhance creative perspectives and relationships among peers, while also ensuring strong eligibility criteria for applicants.

The Asian Cultural Council's New York Fellowship offers a transformative six-month program for artists, scholars, and arts professionals from Asia. Participants engage deeply with New York City's vibrant cultural landscape, attending performances, exhibitions, and workshops while building networks with local communities. This unique opportunity fosters peer-learning and individual artistic development, encouraging fellows to incorporate their experiences into their practices and contribute to their home cultures. The fellowship emphasizes exploration, exchange, and support, culminating in a rich cultural immersion.

The Craft Research Fund Grant, initiated in 2005, is a key program supporting scholarly craft research in the U.S. It funds researchers and curators exploring craft history and theory, with a focus on projects that reveal new insights into craft practices, relationships between hand-made and digital technologies, and global contexts for American craft. The grant aims to encourage innovation and interdisciplinary approaches in the field, while prioritizing applications from underrepresented populations.

The Craft Archive Fellowship supports archival research on underrepresented craft histories in the U.S., including feminist, queer, Black, Indigenous, and other marginalized communities. It offers a $5,000 stipend for scholars and artists to conduct research in chosen archives, encouraging innovative approaches. Participants will present their findings in a virtual program, and their work will be published in Hyperallergic, broadening accessibility and awareness of vital craft research.

The CAA Professional Development Fellowship in Visual Arts offers a $10,000 grant to support MFA students and artists from underrepresented groups. This fellowship aids in job-search expenses or purchasing materials for their studio practice. Recipients also receive a one-year CAA membership and free registration to the Annual Conference. Honorable Mentions will also receive membership and conference registration. This initiative promotes diversity and provides crucial support to emerging artists in their professional journey.