Artist Opportunities

American for the Arts is the national advocacy group for the National Endowment for the Arts. They feature a job bank on their site with listings of arts administration-related positions available across the nation.

The Toledo Museum of Art has several positions available, from administrative and specialty to maintenance and service staff. For up to date listings and information about individual postings, click below. 

American Frame has several positions available. For up to date listings and information about individual postings, click below. 

MULTIPLE POSITIONS OPEN

The origin of the Toledo Lucas County Public Library dates back to 1838, making it the first public library funded by tax dollars in the state of Ohio. In 1970, three Library systems merged to form the current countywide Toledo-Lucas County Public Library. In subsequent years, the logic of that merger has been demonstrated repeatedly in improved service, increased usage, and more effective use of tax funds. The system now claims a Main Library with 19 neighborhood branch locations and one of the oldest bookmobile services in the country.

Various positions throughout the library system are posted at the link below. Click to browse opportunities, view application deadlines, and apply.

Toledo-Lucas County Rescue Plan Grants for Arts Organizations and Individual Artists

In light of the negative economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Arts Commission worked with the Toledo Area Cultural Leaders to advocate for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for the arts and culture sector in Lucas County and Toledo. As originally announced in October 2022, the Lucas County Board of Commissioners, Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz and Toledo City Council allocated a total of $6 million in ARPA funding to support a multi-year grant program. Nonprofit arts and cultural organizations and individual artists in Lucas County and Toledo may be eligible for these funds. The program is being administered by The Arts Commission.

The program will provide multi-year funding, ending no later than December 2026.

NON-PROFIT ARTS ORGANIZATIONS - Applications are now CLOSED for Arts Organizations

INDIVIDUAL ARTISTS - The portal for Cycle 3 of the Toledo Lucas County Rescue Plan Grants for Individual Artists is CLOSED as of March 25, 2024.

Accelerator Grant Program 2024

The Arts Commission values the many artists across disciplines who are part of Toledo's vibrant creative community. The Accelerator Grant is a competitive program offering financial support with a quick turnaround for local artists to advance their creative projects and their careers. Eligible categories of support for this program include equipment, supplies, professional development, and project support. Grant amounts are not to exceed $1500.

2024 Accelerator Grant Guidelines

Informational Presentation

2024 Grant Application

The 2024 Accelerator Grant Program Dates:

Cycle 1 - Opens April 22. Application deadline: May 20

Cycle 2 - Opens May 21. Application deadline: June 24

Cycle 3 - Opens June 25. Application deadline: July 22

Cycle 4 - Opens July 23. Application deadline: August 26

Cycle 5 - Opens August 27. Application deadline: September 23

Applicants are encouraged to apply to all cycles until they receive a grant award.

Contact Information

For all inquiries about Accelerator Grants, please contact artistservices@theartscommission.org

The Artists with Disabilities Access Program (ADAP) provides funding that gives individual artists with disabilities – and organizations that serve them – the resources they need to further their artistic development. Creative expression by artists of all abilities is essential to building dynamic and diverse communities throughout Ohio, and developing an artistic career is a long-term process. ADAP awards help artists with disabilities advance their artistic practices, making Ohio a more accessible and inclusive place to build an artistic career.

Grant Awards

Grants are awarded to individual artists at both the emerging artist level ($500) and professional artist level ($1,000), with no match required. Organizational applicants may request between $1,000 and $3,000, a 1:1 cash match is required.

Note: For the purposes of the ADAP program, emerging artists are individuals who have consistently worked in their chosen art form for more than three years, have demonstrated strong artistic potential, and want to develop their careers. Professional artists are individuals who devote a major portion of their time to creating, practicing, performing, or teaching any of the arts.

Eligibility

All applying artists must:

• Be an Ohio resident (the OAC defines an Ohio resident as someone who spends at least eight months of the year living and working in Ohio), and, if awarded funding, remain a resident during the grant period

• Have exhibited, performed, or published work as an artist within the past five years

• Have a disability (per Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) guidelines)

• Not be a student enrolled in any degree- or certificate-granting program

Both creative and performing artists who have a disability and are residents of Ohio may apply to this program. The OAC uses the definition of disability contained in Sec. 12102 of the ADA, as amended by the ADA.

Amendments Act of 2008 (P.L. 110-325), which went into effect on January 1, 2009. This act is available online: ada.gov/pubs/ada.htm.

All applying organizations must be based in Ohio, serve Ohio artists, and possess nonprofit status or nonprofit intent. Applicants need not be registered with the IRS as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Application Deadlines

June 1 annually (for activities taking place July 15—next June 30) and, if program funds are not expended, December 1 annually (for activities taking place January 15—June 30)

Staff Contacts

Brianna Dance
Organizational Investment Coordinator
for organizations in the Eastern Region
brianna.dance@oac.ohio.gov
614-728-4427

Jim Szekacs
Organizational Investment Coordinator
for organizations in the Western Region, and
Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, and Lorain
counties
jim.szekacs@oac.ohio.gov
614-728-4449

APPLICATION DEADLINE MARCH 15 ANNUALLY

APPLY

The Ohio Arts Council is excited to share two opportunities aimed at supporting and celebrating Ohio's folk and traditional artists.

The Traditional Arts Apprenticeship program provides awards that allow dedicated apprentices to follow a time-honored method to develop skills in valued art forms. Apprentices and traditional arts masters should submit a joint application.

Master artists may request up to $4,000 to work with one, and if appropriate, two, apprentices. At least 50 percent of the request must be used for master artist honoraria. No match is required.

Application Deadline: March 15 annually

Application Draft Deadline (for feedback prior to submission): March 1 annually

NOMINATE

The Ohio Heritage Fellowship program recognizes and supports Ohio folk and traditional artists who are the most influential masters of their particular traditions and whose work in the folk and traditional arts has had a significant impact on their communities.

Each year, the Ohio Arts Council will award one Ohio Heritage Fellowship to an individual or group whose work in the folk arts has had a significant impact on the people and communities of the state. The folk and traditional arts grow out of particular cultures and are recognized as the artistic expressions of ethnic, linguistic, occupational or regional groups. The recipient will receive a commemorative plaque plus a $5,000 award at a public award ceremony.

Nomination Deadline: March 15 annually

CITY OF TOLEDO FIG PROGRAM INCLUDES NON-COMMERCIAL MURALS

The Facade Improvement Grant (FIG) program helps property owners transform the facade of commercial, industrial, and mixed-use buildings located in low-to-moderate income census tracts by providing a 50% matching grant to reimburse expenses incurred during a comprehensive facade improvement. The minimum grant amount is $10,000 and the maximum grant amount is $40,000.

The FIG program is funded by Federal Community Development Block Grant (“CDBG”) dollars. Therefore, grant funds are subject to federal requirements. The program is subject to a two-year period of compliance, reporting, and annual inspection by the City of Toledo. The grant is collateralized by a promissory note that is secured by a mortgage on the property for two years. Applications will be processed in the order they are received and grants will be awarded as funding is available.

Eligibility

Eligible Applicants:

Eligible applicants, whether individual or entity, meet the following criteria:

• *Applicant owns the building for which they are applying

• Applicant is in good standing with governmental entities (i.e. current on income tax, property tax, utilities, code violations, fees).

*If the applicant does not own the building for which they are applying but does have the building under contract, the applicant is eligible to apply for the grant. However, grants will not be awarded until the applicant owns the building for which they are applying.

Eligible Buildings

Eligible buildings must:

• Have no code violations

• Be located in a low-to-moderate income census tract of the city of Toledo

A building's eligibility is determined by use, not zoning.

Eligible buildings include:

• Commercial use (non-residential)

• Industrial use

• Mixed-use (integrated commercial and residential uses)

A building is ineligible to receive the grant if it contains businesses in the following industries:

• Payday loan businesses

• Liquor and tobacco stores

• Pawn shops

• Firearm or other weapons dealers

• Adult entertainment

• Passive real estate investments

Buildings with vacancies are required to provide a marketing plan that demonstrates their intention to actively market the property for commercial, industrial, or mixed-uses, a letter of intent from a business to occupy the space, or a statement of self-occupancy by the building owner. Buildings with an exclusively single-family residential or multi-family residential use are not eligible. A building may not receive more than one Facade Improvement Grant in its lifetime.

Eligible Expenses

The Facade Improvement Grant provides funding for a comprehensive enhancement to a building's facade. A facade is defined as the side of a building that faces a public street and contains a customer or primary entrance. Eligible projects include replacement, repair, or addition of at least two of the expenses below.

Eligible expenses include:

• Building facing materials

• Windows

• Doors

• Gutters and down spouts

• Stairs

• Ramps

• Sidewalks

• Permanent deck

• Permanent patio

• Exterior lighting (including lighting directed on the building, but not attached to it)

• Exterior painting

• Awnings

• Canopies

• Non-commercial artist mural approved by The Arts Commission

• Walk-up service window

• Permanent patio or deck

• Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) assessment recommendations for the building facade.

• Roofing expenses are eligible, but non-reimbursable expenses, which are applicable toward an applicant's match amount and must be accompanied by at least two of the expenses listed above to be eligible for the FIG.

Ineligible expenses include:

• Paving

• Landscaping

• Fencing

• Sidewalks located on public property

All enhancements must be located on private property and comply with zoning and building codes to be eligible for the Facade Improvement Grant. Any eligible expense incurred prior to the execution of the Facade Improvement Grant Agreement, or work performed without required permits, is ineligible.

A minimum of three quotes is required for each eligible expense, listed as a separate line item. Quotes must confirm adherence to Davis Bacon requirements, be on contractor letterhead, have individual line items for each eligible expense, and clearly identify the scope of work and estimated cost. Contractors shall have required licensing, bond, and insurance, and all work shall be performed according to applicable codes (i.e. Ohio Revised Code and Toledo Municipal Code).

Projects shall be completed within 12 months of the Effective Date of the Facade Improvement Grant Agreement.

Applications are now open for Arts Midwest’s GIG Fund! This grant of up to $4,000 helps Midwestern organizations work with professional artists to present community programming

• What: The GIG Fund is a grant of $2,000 – $4,000 that helps organizations bring artists into their community. Curious about what kinds of projects have been funded as part of the GIG Fund? Explore recent GIG Fund grantees in Arts Midwest’s filterable database.

• When: Intent to Apply is due May 23, 2024 (required). Applications are due June 12, 2024. Funded activities should take place between September 2024 and May 2025.

• Where: Non-profit organizations located in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin and the Native nations that share this geography can apply.

• Who: This funding is available to non-profit and tribal organizations with a budget of $1 million or less looking to present at least two community activities featuring an artist.
  

Deadline: June 12, 2024

Arts Midwest is currently accepting applications for the Midwest Culture Bearers Award.  This new $5,000 award celebrates and supports the work of Midwest culture bearers and folk arts practitioners.

 What is it?  Nine selected individuals will receive a $5,000 unrestricted award. Arts Midwest will create feature stories about each awardee and their work. Awardees can also join relationship-building activities, group conversations, and other opportunities for connection and discussion. 

Who can apply? If you have been practicing arts and culture rooted in your heritage and ancestry for over 10 years and share your practice with your community, you can apply. 

Where? You must live in the Arts Midwest region. This includes Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and the Native Nations that share this geography. 

When to apply? Applications close at 11:59 pm CST on July 29, 2024. The first awards will be made in September 2024. 

You can get help from someone else to complete your application. Or, you can nominate someone with their permission. 

Application Deadline: 11:59 pm CST on July 29, 2024

The Art in Architecture Program oversees the commissioning of artworks for federal buildings nationwide. These artworks enhance the civic meaning of federal architecture and showcase the vibrancy of American visual arts. Together, the art and architecture of federal buildings create a lasting cultural legacy for the people of the United States.

Selection

We reserve 0.5% of the estimated construction cost of each new federal building or modernization for an Art in Architecture commission — a contractual agreement with an artist to create a site-specific artwork as part of the building project. For each new project, a panel of art professionals, the primary federal client representative, civic and community representatives, the project’s lead design architect, and our staff meet to discuss opportunities for artists to participate in the building project.

The panel reviews a diverse pool of artist candidates, drawn from the National Artist Registry and SAM.gov solicitation responses, and nominates finalists for us to evaluate. Artists who receive federal commissions work with the project architects and others as members of a design team to ensure that the artworks are meaningfully integrated into the overall project. We initiate about five commissions each year.

Commission timeframe

We commission large-scale, permanently installed artworks for federal building projects nationwide. These Art in Architecture commissions typically require a commitment of approximately three to five years, starting with our award of the project artist's contract and ending when the completed artwork is installed.

Art in Architecture contract schedules are based on the design and construction schedule of the associated building project. This allows the commissioned artwork to be developed in conjunction with the architectural design of the building and installed at the appropriate moment in the overall project schedule.

Art in Architecture Policies and Procedures Aug 2022 [PDF - 215 KB]

Who is eligible

Who is eligible for an Art in Architecture commission:  American artists who are citizens or lawful permanent residents of the United States.

To be considered for:

• All new commissions for the next ten years, join the National Artist Registry.

• One commission at a time, respond to the solicitation announced in SAM.gov.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: MARCH 15 (ANNUALLY)

The Traditional Arts Apprenticeship program provides support for master artists to work with apprentices to build understanding and proficiency in folk and traditional art forms. By pairing exemplary practitioners of traditional art forms with dedicated apprentices, this program allows for concentrated study and cultural exchange. Traditional Arts Apprenticeship awards support the teaching and sharing of important cultural traditions, and enrich the lives of people throughout the state.

GRANT AWARDS: Master artists may request up to $4,000 to work with one, and if appropriate, two, apprentices. At least 50 percent of the request must be used for master artist honoraria. No match is required.

ELIGIBILITY: Apprentices must live in Ohio; master artists may live in another state if there is no suitable artist in Ohio. Both masters and apprentices must be U.S. citizens or permanent resident aliens, and must have lived in the country for at least eight months prior to the deadline.
Applicants are eligible for only one award per year. Applications are accepted for apprenticeships in all forms of traditional arts, including traditional music and instrument making, sacred and secular crafts, occupational traditions, folk and ethnic dance, and traditional arts associated with annual celebrations.

STAFF CONTACT
Kathy Signorino
Individual Artist/Percent for Art Program
Coordinator and Traditional Arts
Apprenticeships Program Coordinator
kathy.signorino@oac.ohio.gov
614-728-6140

DEADLINE SEPTEMBER 1 ANNUALLY

The Individual Excellence Awards program recognizes outstanding accomplishments by artists in a variety of disciplines. Awards give artists the resources to experiment and explore their art forms, develop skills and advance their careers, and receive affirmation and acknowledgment for outstanding work. Competitive applications focused on the merit of past artistic work, combined with an open panel review conducted by nationally recognized professionals, ensure that only the most exceptional individuals receive funding.

GRANT AWARDS: Individual Excellence Awards are $5,000.

Odd-numbered years (e.g. 2017, 2019): choreography, criticism, fiction/non-fiction, music composition, playwriting/screenplays, and poetry.
Even-numbered years (e.g. 2018, 2020): crafts, design arts/illustration, interdisciplinary/collaborative & performance art, media arts, photography, visual arts 2D, and visual arts 3D.

STAFF CONTACT
Kathy Signorino
Individual Artist/Percent for Art Program
Coordinator and Traditional Arts
Apprenticeships Program Coordinator
kathy.signorino@oac.ohio.gov
614-728-6140

The Ann Arbor Art Center (A2AC) is committed to providing accessible opportunities for artists at every stage of their careers providing invaluable space and time to explore, experiment and enrich their creative practice.

Located in the heart of Ann Arbor’s emerging creative district, A2AC is the premier venue for artists to sell, exhibit and teach.

CONTEMPORARY GALLERY IN DOWNTOWN TOLEDO

River House Arts accepts submissions from contemporary artists working in all types of media, including video, for consideration on an ongoing basis. Visit link for submission details. 

The Blu-Sky Artist Award (BSAA), an online international semi-annual grant for artists.

Introducing the Blu-Sky Artist Award (BSAA), your launchpad to art recognition and success. With an unrestricted grant that includes: $500 grant to two artists, a published interview, and a dedicated artist profile.

Eligibility
* Must be 18 years of age or older
* All submissions must be original creations of the participating artists.
* Open to artists worldwide.
* All 2d or 3d visual mediums accepted
* Emerging to established artists welcome

Early Bird: $25 for 10 submissions until May 15th, 2023
Regular: $35 for 10 submissions 

Submission Deadline: July 31, 2024

Sauder Village, Ohio’s largest living history museum, is searching for wood artisans to participate in the Woodcarver’s Show and Sale on October 25 & 26, 2024.

At Sauder Village, we celebrate all kinds of wood art, from turning to carving to burning and everything in between! Whether you’re a student of the traditional arts or working to blaze a new trail, we want you at our show.

Prospective exhibitors and vendors may send photos of their work along with a short description of their business or art to autumn.owens@saudervillage.org in order to receive an application. This is a juried show.

Deadline for submission: September 27, 2024

Brood X, or (brood 10), in partnership with the Momentum Festival hosted by The Arts Commission, provides a platform for visual storytellers to share their work in front of a physical audience composed of other movie-makers, creatives, producers, enthusiasts, and storytellers. A night of celebration and collective appreciation for the work we all put into the stories we tell.

What the frick is Brood X?  Our namesake, Brood X is the brood of periodical cicadas that emerged in 2021 having spent the previous 17 years underground! Like these cicadas, your ideas and your stories have been growing and developing out of sight, waiting patiently to burst from the depths - to be seen, to be heard. Like the song of the cicada, the thunderous buzz that resonates with all those who grew up in the midwest; this event will bring a warm nostalgia for summer nights, while creating new memories of unharnessed expression and storytelling in the process.

Awards & Prizes:

$1000 Cash Jury Prize Award

$500 Cash Audience Award

SUBMISSION CRITERIA:

- Short Films exclusively will be considered

-Primary production must have taken place in Ohio, or Michigan.

OR

Primary Crew or Cast i.e., Director, Writer, Producer, Editor, or Lead On-Screen Role must currently reside in Ohio, OR resided in Toledo, Ohio within the past 5 years OR are currently attending an educational institution located in Ohio or Michigan (please contact directly for clarification).

-Duration: 2-15 minute total runtime, including title cards & credits)

NOTE ON LENGTH - our programmable allotted time is 2 hours. With this in mind, the longer your piece, the more difficult it will be to slot. If you submit a longer piece, make it POP!

- Multiple submissions WILL NOT be accepted per storyteller

- EXPERIMENTAL WORKS ARE WELCOME! - But, as the core of the event is to tell stories, effective messaging through your work will be considered for selection purposes.

Key Dates:

Submissions Open - June 1, 2024

Submissions Close - August  24, 2024

Notification of Selection: September 7, 2024

Event Date: September 21, 2024

Are you ready to capture the essence of nature's vibrancy? We invite talented artists and photographers to participate in our Green Art Competition. This is your chance to explore the myriad shades and themes of green, from lush landscapes and verdant forests to the subtle beauty of a single leaf, and present your unique interpretation.

Open Worldwide: All mediums, styles, and backgrounds accepted.

Fees: $20 for 2 images. Apply using the online form.

Deadline: August 28th, 2024.

Are you ready to capture the essence of life's journey? We invite talented artists and photographers to participate in our Circle of Life Art Competition. This is your chance to explore the myriad stages of life, from birth to growth, decay, and renewal, and present your unique interpretation.

Open Worldwide: All mediums, styles, and backgrounds accepted.

Fees: $20 for 2 images. Apply using the online form.

Deadline: August 28th, 2024

Mother Earth Art Competition celebrates the beauty, vitality, and importance of our planet. Artists are encouraged to explore the diverse aspects of the Earth, including its landscapes, ecosystems, flora, and fauna, as well as the relationship between humans and nature. Through painting, sculpture, photography, or mixed media, artists can express their reverence for the Earth and raise awareness about environmental issues.

$100 cash prize awarded to the 1st place winner. The first, second, and third place winners will receive recognition on the website and through our social media channels. All recipients of the competitions will receive digital certificates.

Standard: $20 for 4 images or $30 for 6 images.

Deadline: July 31, 2024

Nature International Art Competition explores the beauty of our planet with the Nature-Themed Art Competition! Unleash your creativity by submitting artworks that capture the essence of nature. Use your chosen medium to evoke the feelings, moods, and stories that inspire.
All 2D and 3D visual art is welcome (Painting, Mixed Media, Photography, Digital, and Sculpture). Competition is open to artists worldwide, regardless of background, skill level, or style. All applicants must be 18 years or older. Standard $20 for 4 images.

$100 cash prize awarded to the 1st place winner. The first, second, and third place winners will receive recognition on the websites and through our social media channels. Additionally, merit and honorable mention awards will be presented.

Standard $20 for 4 images /$30 for 6 images.

Submission Deadline: August 31st, 2024

The Mystical Wonders online art contest invites artists to explore the magical realms of your imagination. Submit artworks that depict mystical landscapes, mythical creatures, and otherworldly phenomena. Whether it’s through photography, mixed media, or traditional mediums, this theme allows artists to explore realms beyond the ordinary. Competition is open to artists worldwide, regardless of background, skill level, or style.

$100 cash prize awarded to the 1st place winner. The first, second, and third place winners will receive recognition on the websites and through our social media channels. Additionally, merit and honorable mention awards will be presented. All applicants must be 18 years or older.

Standard $20 for 4 images

Submission Deadline: August 31st, 2024.

The City of Toledo is holding a competition for for proposed redesigns of the Toledo flag, facilitated by The Arts Commission.

This initiative aims to engage the community in reimagining the city's visual identity and unify residents around a new flag design that reflects Toledo's spirit and values. A Design Review Board (DRB) composed of community members and design experts will guide the redesign process. 

Individuals must reside in the City of Toledo to participate in this redesign effort. Design submissions will remain anonymous throughout the process, ensuring a fair and unbiased evaluation of each entry.

Three finalists for the project will receive cash prizes for their designs. Second and third place will receive a $1000 cash prize. The first place winner will receive a $3000 cash prize.

Click here to view guidelines for submission.

Submission Deadline: August 28th

SCHEDULE

Saturday, September 21

11AM to 1PM: Load-in and set-up

1PM to 8PM: Event

8PM to 10PM: Take-down

Sunday, September 22

9AM to 11AM: Load-in and set-up

11AM to 4PM: Event

6PM to 8PM: Take-down

Please note, for the safety of guests we will not be able to move artists in or out of the event during market hours (September 21, 1PM to 8PM and September 22, 11AM to 4PM).

LOCATION

Event: N. Superior St. between Madison Ave. and Adams St., Toledo, OH 43604

Load-in & Pick-up: Turn onto N. Superior St. from Adams St. Please drop items off and move your vehicle as soon as possible.

Parking: Superior Street Garage, 325 N St. Clair St., Toledo, OH 43604

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Fee: The fee for this year’s event has been waived entirely, no fees are due.

Tents: A 20’ x 60’ tent is provided to cover the first 12 artists, one 6’ table per artist, and 2 chairs are provided in each section. Artists may bring additional tables, chairs, and dividers as needed. Additional artists after 12 will be asked to provide their own tent but will have tables and chairs available.

Artist Responsibilities: Artists are responsible for providing their own table covers, any barriers wanted between booth set-ups under the large tent, and obtaining a vendor’s license if needed.

FAQs

Will there be security at the event?

There will be security during festival hours and on the footprint during after hours

What all will be provided?

The Arts Commission will provide tables and chairs. Market artists will be set up under a large tent. Once we fill the space we will ask artists to bring their own tent. Exhibition artists will be in the Gardner Building.

Can I participate in the Artist Market and Exhibition Program?

Yes! Artists are welcome to show their work in the Exhibition Program and sell their work at the Artist Market. If your installation in the Exhibition Program has an interactive component be sure to have signage or someone to stand in for you.

View Artist Market Details | Apply Online

The Blue Koi Online Art Competitions and Exhibitions continue to celebrate diversity and excellence in the visual arts on a global scale. The Pop Surrealism theme accepts all mediums and styles, e.g., Traditional Art, Mixed Media, Digital Art, Sculpture and Photography.

Submit your work to the Pop Surrealism/Lowbrow exhibition! Join this groundbreaking and unconventional art movement. Showcase your compelling, and controversial pieces in this influential show. This theme is characterized using bold colors, intricate detail, and a playful yet critical approach to contemporary culture.

The winner of the Pop Surrealism Competition will receive $150 USD cash prize, a professionally designed certificate and extensive media promotion. The 2nd and 3rd prize will receive media posts, newsletter blast and a certificate. Honorable Mentions and finalists will also be awarded certificates for their talent. All winners will be exhibited in the Blue Koi Online Art Exhibition alongside hundreds of the world’s best contemporary artists.

Deadline: September 30, 2024

The 12th annual Tree City Film Festival’s 50-hour Challenge is an exciting and intense weekend that invites teams of professional, student, non-professional, and even “armchair” filmmakers to write, shoot, edit, and premiere their own short films in just 50 hours.

Teams start the challenge at the kickoff meeting on the evening of September 13th, where they receive a series of elements that must be incorporated into their film – things like a particular genre, prop, line of dialogue, character name, and shooting location. After the allotted 50 hours of the weekend are over and the films are accepted, they are juried by a guest panel of judges and will premier at the Tree City Film Festival on November 2, 2024 with $850 in awards.

Deadline for Registration is Sept. 13th, 2024
Registration is $60/team or $50/Student Team and includes 4 tickets to the film fest

The Midwest Sculpture Initiative is proud to be organizing five outdoor sculpture exhibits for the 2024-25 Fall Series.

All exhibits feature the following benefits to the exhibiting sculptor: stipends of $1000 (paid to sculptor at time of installation); high visibility sites; year-long coordinated media promotions; most venues offer guided tours and brochures; exhibits posted on the MSI website (www.msisculpture.com) with links to and from the host websites; concrete pads and installation services; strongly encouraged sales (MSI has proven year after year that it can sell sculpture, ask the many happy sculptors); and MSI, with the ‘host’, will provide liability insurance (sculptor supplies damage and loss insurance).

All exhibits begin approximately September 30th, 2024, and conclude September 15th, 2025.

Application Deadline: August 31, 2024

The Blue Koi Online Art Competitions continue to celebrate diversity and excellence in the visual arts on a global scale. The Abstract theme accepts all mediums and styles, e.g., Traditional Art, Mixed Media, Digital Art, Sculpture and Photography.

Join us in celebrating the innovative and boundary-pushing world of abstract art. We invite you to participate in our upcoming Abstract themed art show, where you can share your unique vision and creativity with a global audience. Showcase your compelling, and controversial pieces in this vibrant and influential show. This genre challenges the observer to engage with the artwork on a deeper, more intuitive level, evoking emotions and thoughts.

The winner of the Abstract Competition will receive a $150 USD cash prize, a professionally designed certificate, and extensive media exposure. The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prize winners will be prominently featured on our website, in media posts, newsletter blasts, and will receive a certificate. Awards will also be given to qualifying Honorable Mention and Finalists. All winners will have the honor of being exhibited in the Blue Koi Online Art Exhibition alongside hundreds of the world’s best contemporary artists.

Standard: $20 for 4 images or $30 for 6 images

Deadline: September 30, 2024

This year the Momentum Festival will activate currently vacant spaces on N. Superior St. between Madison and Adams. These spaces will be used to exhibit art by Toledo creatives in a non-juried, multimedia arts showcase for which any local artist is eligible. Artists of any medium are encouraged to apply. This includes but is not limited to dance, music, theater, film, literature, design, and visual arts.

The Arts Commission is inviting artists to apply for an exhibition space during the 2024 Momentum Festival, showcasing their work on September 20 - 22. This program of the Momentum Festival adds local arts experience that brings the creative community together to revitalize space and show off the diversity of art, artists, performance, music, culture, and people that make Toledo such an inspiring and vibrant place. The block of N. Superior between Madison and Adams will be transformed with visual art displays, installations, film and video features, live poetry and performances. This non-juried exhibition will allow any Toledo creative to show off what they do.

Groups and teams are encouraged to apply and additional space may be granted. Non-visual artists must bring their own equipment but please check the image list for which spaces have outlets.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Exhibiting artists must participate in no less than 4 volunteer hours during the festival that may include set-up, tear-down, safely monitoring, or other duties as assigned.

• Exhibiting artists must have a residence or creative studio within 50 miles of downtown Toledo, Ohio.

SCHEDULE:

Application open until full.

August 26 - September 14

Artists can access the space and start installing work. A schedule with specific times and dates will be provided prior to August 24.

Saturday, September 14

All work needs to be installed by the end of the day.

Friday, September 20 6pm - 9pm

Opening night of The Momentum Festival. An Artist Mixer will be held in the Exhibition area of the Gardner Building.

Saturday, September 21 1pm - 10pm and Sunday, September 22 11am - 4pm

Exhibition Program on display for public viewing during the Festival.

Monday, September 23 - Friday, September 27

De-installation of work in the Gardner Building. All work needs to be out by the end of day Friday. A schedule with specific times will be provided prior to September 14.


View Guidelines and Details | View Exhibition Space Photos | View Exhibition Space Video

Exhibition space is now filled. This is a first come, first serve exhibition but if there are enough artists interested we may have space to expand. Please fill out this Interest Form and we will reach out if space becomes available.

FAQs:

Will there be security at the event?

There will be security during festival hours and on the footprint during after hours

What all will be provided?

The Arts Commission will provide tables and chairs. Market artists will be set up under a large tent. Once we fill the space we will ask artists to bring their own tent. Exhibition artists will be in the Gardner Building.

Can I participate in the Artist Market and Exhibition Program?

Yes! Artists are welcome to show their work in the Exhibition Program and sell their work at the Artist Market. If your installation in the Exhibition Program has an interactive component be sure to have signage or someone to stand in for you. 

Is the Exhibition Program juried? 

The Exhibition Program is a non-juried show that is filled on a first-come, first-served basis. We will do our best to accommodate all artists who apply.

The Blue Koi Online Art Competitions/Exhibitions continue to celebrate diversity and excellence in the visual arts on a global scale. We proudly present the Women Only Online Art Exhibition. Both 2D and 3D artists are encouraged to apply. All mediums and styles, e.g., Traditional Art, Mixed Media, Digital Art, Sculpture, and Photography. —an exclusive opportunity for women artists to globally show their collective talents.

For this competition, there is no specified theme, allowing artists the freedom to explore any subject matter and express their creativity through various mediums. We welcome your finest work for our online exhibition. This open theme (Artist Choice) competition invites women to submit their completed artwork or photography.

The winner of the Women Only Competition will receive a $250 USD cash prize, a professionally designed certificate, and extensive media exposure. The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prize winners will be prominently featured on our website, in media posts, newsletter blasts, and will receive a certificate. Awards will also be given to qualifying Honorable Mention and Finalists. All winners will have the honor of being in the online Blue Koi Online Art Exhibition alongside hundreds of the world’s best contemporary artists.

Standard: $25 for 4 images or $30 for 6 images
Open Worldwide. All applicants must be 18 years or older.

Submit your artwork by October 31st, 2024.

Partnered with the Toledo Lucas County Public Library, The Actors’ Workshop is a monthly event featuring studies of film acting techniques, interactive improv exercises, and discussion of the local film scene.

ToledoPoet.com is the site for Toledo Poets.  View our Calendar of Events, join our Email group to get notification and reminders of events, and check out our Local Publishers Accepting Submissions page. Be sure to sign up for the email list!

The Artist Opportunities Database is a searchable listing of opportunities for artists, managed by the Ohio Arts Council (OAC), and is free and open to the public for browsing and searching. The purpose of the database is to announce opportunities available to artists.

Candid houses a wealth of information for nonprofits, organizations, and individuals, including some services such as webinars and workshops tailored specifically to artists. In short, it is a great organization to be aware of with comprehensive search options for grants and other financial resources. Individuals and organizations can purchase a membership to find funding online ($50/month) or can visit the Toledo Lucas County Public Main Library and access the portal (with training) for free.

Toledo-Lucas County Public Library
Business Technology Department
325 N Michigan St
Toledo, OH 43604
Phone: 419-259-5209
Main URL: https://www.toledolibrary.org/business

Grantspace is a service of Candid with a honed mission around grantmaking and services.

From cardio drumming to salsa lessons to pottery and cooking classes to cultural tours, SQACC offers a host of community classes and programs. 

For more information or to sign up for a class follow the link below.

The Collingwood Arts Center facility houses over 25 visual arts studio spaces of varying sizes, as well as nine music studios and one dance studio. Studio leases are written for 6 month periods only, with the contract reverting to a month to month basis after the original 6 months. Restrictions: these spaces are for studio work space only. They may not be used as residential spaces. Utilities are included in rental rate. Click here to download the application. Return completed application and $25 application fee to: Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Ave., Toledo OH 43620. For detailed information, photos, dimensions, and pricing, visit the CAC's website

Join the BiG Fab Lab and gain access to our woodshop, metalshop, pottery studio, 3D printers and scanners, laser engraver and more! Schedule a tour now!

Once you become a member and pass basic tool safety training, your creativity can have full reign!

Members are expected to work in a safe manner, treat others with respect, clean up after themselves, and care for the equipment. Memberships will be revoked if these guidelines are not followed. Check out our Member Handbook to understand your responsibilities as a member.

Each member will be issued an RFID swipe picture ID. This card will be necessary to access various areas of the Lab. Soon, our swipe system will allow us to control tool access, monitor usage, and monitor scheduling.

The library offers free small business resources for those looking to get an idea off the ground. Topics include: learn about the business you're interested in, know your competition, define your overall goals, create a business plan.

The library also has a WorkSpace for individuals and organizations to establish a home base for up to 3 months.

The University of Toledo Community Music Program offers group and private music lessons to members of the community. You do not need to be a UToledo student to participate. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are not holding GROUP lessons at this time. We hope to hold GROUP LESSONS in the future when the pandemic is passed. Any decision will be announced here on the website.

Private lessons will be conducted virtually if a student teacher is available in the desired instrument or in voice. Please complete the inquiry form below and someone from the Music Department will get back with you.

TMA offers an assortment of virtual and in-person art classes for youth and adult audiences in a range of media.

Explore your creativity for the first time—or the first time in years—at the Toledo Museum of Art. For more than a century, this community resource has offered classes for every age, every experience level, and every schedule. All classes and workshops are related to works of art in the TMA collection.

Students will visit the galleries virtually, learn about some of the iconic works of art, then combine that inspiration with their own creativity at home. Looking for a creative outlet for the kids, wanting to try something new or seeking an opportunity to refine your skills? You’ll find it here.

Copper Moon teaches you the basics of fused glass to assemble a project designed by you. Using a variety of fused glass techniques, you'll choose the colors and patterns. After you design the piece, we'll fire the design in our kiln and have it ready for pick up at our studio one week from the day of your class.

A great option for birthday parties, corporate events, troop activities, or a family fun day! Do you need a quiet afternoon to create? Come by yourself and work independently. Call 419-867-0683 for more information.

The Toledo Artists’ Club has made it a priority to offer classes and workshops for both children and adults.

All classes held at the Toledo Artists' Club, in the Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Drive, Toledo, Ohio

The Scribe is a free, monthly, arts-focused newspaper that showcases and promotes local Toledo area artists, authors, photographers, and other talented individuals.

Apollo Press is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is dedicated to producing and managing community newspaper publications. We are local to the Toledo, Ohio area, and work with community creators to give them free exposure and networking.

For all potters and clay enthusiast looking to continue their ceramic practice in a knowledgeable and communal environment. A fully equipped studio space that you can have 24/7 access to. Consider becoming a member of the Toledo Potters Guild located in the artist village of the beautiful Toledo Botanical Garden. Membership opens twice a year the next round for membership applications will open September 1st deadline for application September 9th. There is no application fee if interested see our website for application.

Application opens 09/01/2024 closes 09/09/2024

Art Dock makes it so easy for artists who love to teach by taking care of all the business details of teaching - at no cost to the artist.

Art Dock envisions a world where creativity knows no bounds. We are committed to empowering talented instructors to flourish in their craft and reach a wider audience, while fostering a vibrant community of enthusiastic learners.

For artists, Art Dock takes care of bookings, payments, promoting your classes, waitlists, reminders and more! Art Dock also makes it easy for students to find local classes and register for them.