Aside from photo work for clients, exhibiting my photography and receiving grants to fund said photography has been important part of my artistic journey. If sharing your work with the public and receiving funding is in alignment with your desires right now, I present two opportunities for artists in Washington State.
Opportunity 1:
Description: The 2nd Annual Black Artists Exhibition is an expanded opportunity for Black artists to share their work with the public and to dialogue with members of the community about their inspiration and how it is manifested in their artistry.
Opportunity Type: Exhibition
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Organization: Tacoma Community College | Tacoma, WA
Application Deadline: October 25th, 2023
Guidelines: Open to Black artists who reside in South Puget Sound or who have a connection with the South Sound. See the full guidelines > here
Kenya’s tip / lived experience: I took part in this opportunity this year, and overall, it was a positive experience. As for whether I would apply again in the future, I have some reservations. Currently, engaging in unpaid exhibition opportunities doesn't align with my sustainability goals.
However, if I were to consider applying and participating again, I would approach it strategically. Specifically, I would use the exhibition as an integral component of a broader public relations campaign, either to promote a paid product available on my website or to support the promotion of a self-curated or artist-driven ticketed exhibition shortly after the TCC exhibition. This way, I can ensure that my participation contributes to my short and long-term goals.
Opportunity 2:
Description: The Bothell Arts Commission provides funding and support for the arts through a vision of connecting, supporting, and inspiring the community through arts and culture. The 2023/2024 Creative Arts Grant Program is a new program of work.
Opportunity Type: Reimbursement grant funding
Organization: City of Bothell | Bothell, WA
Application Deadline: September 15th, 2023 & April 12th, 2024
Guidelines: See the full guidelines > here
Kenya’s tip / lived experience: This marks the first round of funding from the Bothell Arts Commission, so I haven't had prior experience with this specific award. However, in the past, I had the chance to curate and participate in my inaugural exhibition thanks to a grant provided by the City of Tacoma Arts Commission. With reimbursement grants, thorough record-keeping is important.
What has been your own experience with unpaid exhibition opportunities and reimbursement grants? I believe there is a need for more forums where artists can engage in conversations with one another about the intricacies of building a liberating and sustainable artistic practice. Please feel free to share your thoughts with me by sending an email or commenting below. I would be genuinely delighted to hear your perspective.