The Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC) offers the Grants for Artists: Creative Projects program to support the development of visual artistic excellence in Oklahoma. OVAC’s mission is to support Oklahoma artists through funding, resources, and advocacy, and this grant program directly contributes to that goal by helping individual visual artists create work for public presentation, enhance their professional practices, and lead community-based projects. The grants are open to artists working in visual-based mediums, as well as those involved in curation and art writing.

This grant provides funding of up to $1,500 to selected artists for the creation of new work that will culminate in a public event, exhibition, or presentation focused on the artist’s work. The review process assesses each application based on career-altering potential, quality of work, strength of the project concept, and the applicant’s demonstrated ability to complete the proposed project successfully. Applications are reviewed and awarded twice a year.

Eligible applicants must be at least 21 years old, currently residing in Oklahoma, and not enrolled in a BFA or MFA program. Additionally, applicants must not have received funding from OVAC within the past year. This ensures that a broader range of artists benefit from the program and that emerging talent continues to be supported. Both established and emerging artists are encouraged to apply if they meet these criteria.

The application requires several components, including a completed application form, an artist resume or CV, a 250-word artist/curator/writer statement, and 10-15 work samples or video URLs. Work samples can include finished artworks, sketches, concept drawings, writing samples, documentation of curatorial projects, or other relevant materials. A list identifying each work sample must also be included. Additionally, applicants must provide a balanced budget showing that project income and expenses align, a timeline identifying major milestones, and secured or potential venues for the public presentation of their work. Sketches or concept drawings are optional but encouraged.

Applications must be received by 11:59 pm on either March 15th or October 15th, depending on the applicant’s preferred review cycle. Following each deadline, a committee reviews applications and notifies applicants of their decisions within approximately four weeks. Accepted applicants receive payment about two weeks after notification, contingent upon submission of required paperwork. All grant-supported projects must occur after the grant is awarded and within one year of receiving funds.

Artists who have questions about the program or the application process are encouraged to reach out directly to Ariana at OVAC via email at ariana@ovac-ok.org. Applications are submitted and reviewed through Submittable, the platform used by OVAC for managing the grant application process.