Guidelines
The COLA-IMAP application consists of:
- an artist’s statement,
- a project narrative,
- resume,
- artistic work sample attachments, and
- supplemental forms
Host venue letters and proposed project budgets are not required, as these are determined by the City. Contingent upon the City’s upcoming budget, grants are provided to selected individuals in May-June of the year following the application. The selected artists are contracted to create new work to be premiered by DCA in one or more presentations in the Spring of 2025. Fellowship payments are generally disbursed over four installments, based on the completion of project-specific contract-specified benchmarks.
If not selected for a grant, applicants may be recommended by the panel to be a Cultural Trailblazer. Trailblazers receive a stipend and are highlighted on DCA’s website and social media platforms.
DCA offers other grant opportunities for creative professionals whose services are developed within group and participatory methodologies, specifically within or at non-profit organizations. For example DCA has a robust Neighborhood Engagement Artist Residency (NEAR) grant program to support “teaching artists” who lead participatory creative projects that take place outside of arts institutions.
Individual artists who meet the eligibility requirements for both the COLA IMAP and NEAR grant programs may apply for both with category-appropriate projects, but should consider the time commitment required of each possible contractual obligation.