Deadline March 15, 2014

The MAKER Grant is an annual award opportunity for Chicago-based contemporary visual artists who demonstrate a commitment to a sustainable artistic practice and career development. MAKER Grant’s unrestricted $3000 and $1000 annual grants are intended to recognize two exceptional artists and support the advancement of their artistic careers.

This grant is funded in part by a portion of proceeds from the Chicago Artists Coalition’s annual Starving Artist fundraiser and a matching contribution from OtherPeoplesPixels. MAKER Grant recognizes both the CAC’s and OPP’s mutual commitments to supporting local artists’ practices and professional development.

AWARD INFORMATION

In addition to financial support, MAKER Grant awardees receive:

• Published interviews and promotion through CAC and OPP communications, including a feature on CAR-Chicago Artists Resource & the OPP blog
• A one-year CAC artist membership
• 'Lifetime' access to OPP's exceptional portfolio services
• Two tickets to attend CAC’s Starving Artist fundraiser on June 21, 2014 (winners will be recognized at the event)

ELIGIBILITY

Applicants must be at least 21 years old, a U.S. citizen or legal resident, as well as a resident of the Chicagoland region (within a 30-mile radius of Chicago). Applicants may not be currently enrolled in a degree-granting program or its equivalent, nor may they apply as a collaborator on more than one proposed project.

WHO SHOULD APPLY

• Artists who can show that they are at a defining moment to achieve growth in their creative and professional careers
• Artists who demonstrate a strong and active engagement with and professional commitment to their artistic practice
• Artists whose work as cultural makers impacts the development of art and culture in a meaningful way

SELECTION PROCESS

Submissions are evaluated by a jury of professional peers from leading cultural institutions in Chicago, as well as representatives from Chicago Artists Coalition and OtherPeoplePixels. The 2014 jury is:

• Greg Lunceford, curator of exhibitions, City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events
• Cesáreo Moreno, chief curator, National Museum of Mexican Art
• Lori Waxman, Chicago-based critic and art historian

HOW TO APPLY

• Complete the online application form
• Upload your Resume
• Provide 10 Work Samples
• Pay non-refundable, $15 application fee

Click here to apply for the Maker Grant.

For questions, please contact Cortney Lederer (Director of Exhibitions and Residencies, Chicago Artists' Coalition) at 312.491.8888.