The Joyce Foundation announced on April 14 the relaunch of its artist award program, increasing funding and broadening eligibility to support more artists across the Great Lakes region.
The initiative aims to strengthen racial equity and cultural life by supporting artists from diverse backgrounds. Since 2004, the foundation has recognized artists of color from Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Ohio through its annual Joyce Awards.
In partnership with United States Artists, the foundation will provide eight unrestricted $100,000 awards along with $40,000 grants over two years. The grants will go to Great Lakes organizations chosen by each awardee to help expand or deepen their artistic work in the region. For the first time, nominations can be submitted by peers or by artists themselves.
“Recognizing the vital role of artists in building a more equitable and just society, the Joyce Foundation is committed to building on more than two decades of our signature Award by deepening our support for Great Lakes artists and communities to strengthen racial equity and cultural life across the region,” said Dr. Julie Morita, President and CEO of The Joyce Foundation.
Artists working in visual arts, performing arts, multimedia or literary arts who live in Michigan, Minnesota or Wisconsin are eligible to apply now through May 4 for the 2026 cycle. Artists from Illinois, Indiana and Ohio can apply next year for four additional awards that will be granted annually after a nomination and panel review process.
More information about applications is available online for those interested in nominating themselves or others for these expanded opportunities.
