Get In Touch with Your Local Arts Agency
Many state and local arts agencies will provide grants to artists directly or to organizations to connect with local artists and help fund their projects. Check out our grantmaking page for local arts agencies to get an idea of what types of grants are typically offered, and get in touch with YOUR local arts agency using our Art Services Directory.
Looking for Housing? Health Insurance? Funding for Community Projects?
Insurance can be difficult to find and afford as an independent artist, and living in a creative community is something that benefits an artist, their work, and their neighbors. These organizations, listed on our Animating Democracy website, help support an artist’s lifestyle, work, and greater community in a variety of ways.
While Americans for the Arts does not publish a database of live/work spaces for artists, we offer a few examples of local arts agencies involved in the development of a local artists live-work space.
Join Americans for the Arts Network of Artists and Art Professionals
If you are an independent artist, arts consultant, student, or arts professionals not affiliated with an organization, you can join Americans for the arts as a professional member and gain access to resources designed to increase professional opportunities in the arts. Join our listserv, receive our Monthly Wire e-newsletter, and get discounted rates at our trainings, workshops, and national conferences—including our Annual Convention and National Arts Marketing Conference, where you can learn about the latest trends in the arts industry and valuable tips and tools for self-branding.
Stay Informed on Advocacy Issues Affecting Artists
Did you know you’re legally allowed to take a musical instrument as a carry-on in an airplane? Thanks to legislation like this, artists have many rights. Make sure you’re up to date on copyright and trademark laws, cultural exchanges, tax laws, and the visa process for artists visiting the United States. We are working to ensure artists are protected and the ties between artists across the world are strengthened.
- Cultural Exchanges Through the U.S. Department of State
- Improving the Visa Process for Foreign Guest Artists
- Tax Fairness for Artists and Writers
- Protecting Performing Arts Technology
Follow ARTSblog for Artists
Our widely read ARTSBlog is valuable resource for artists, with more than 700 expert contributors from the arts field writing about everything from cultural districts to arts education to tips for funding projects. Read, share, and contribute yourself—we’re always looking for artists willing to share their challenges, successes, and experiences with our readers. Contact [email protected] for more information.
Other Resources
Americans for the Arts partners with organizations specifically working for and with artists to ensure artists have access to the tools they need to succeed.
Fractured Atlas has a national network of artists they help support through everything from insurance issues to fundraising to advocacy on the issues that impact your life as an artist.
Creative Capital supports innovative and adventurous artists across the country through funding, counseling, and career development services. They help all artists—from all creative disciplines—realize their visions and build sustainable practices.
WomenArts Foundation List Index - Looking for funding for an individual artist? WomenArts has compiled a list of foundations and other sources who provide funding support for artists.
