Art is the Solution

Overview

Art is the Solution is an annual program by the Santa Fe Arts Commission that awards $10,000 to Santa Fe-based artists and art collectives for art and culture projects culminating in public engagement or exhibition. The program encourages artists to explore how art can be a solution to a wide range of challenges or questions.

Eligibility

• Must be a resident of Santa Fe County
• Projects must take place within Santa Fe City or County
• All projects must be completed with public presentation by June 30 of the year awarded
• Projects must include a public engagement component ensuring accessibility and community involvement
• Previous recipients must wait two years before reapplying
• Ineligible: City of Santa Fe-operated programs, current Arts & Culture Department-funded projects, city employees, incorporated organizations (including 501(c)3s) and LLCs, applicants who received funding in either of the previous two cycles

Disciplines & Formats

Applications welcome from artists of all backgrounds and disciplines, including visual art, film/video, literature, architecture, music composition, performing arts, culinary arts, design, new media, and interdisciplinary arts. Project examples include artworks, murals, public art installations, workshops, public gatherings, performances, exhibits, publication projects such as zines and books, multimedia work, collaborative partnerships, screenings, readings, and other forms.

Evaluation Criteria

• Project Description and Artistic Concept (40 points): How well does the project respond to the 'Art is the Solution' prompt? Is the concept original and creatively compelling?
• Artistic Quality (40 points): Demonstrated proficiency and skill in the chosen medium
• Community Engagement (20 points): Evidence of a plan for accessible, strong public engagement accounting for Santa Fe's diverse community

Application Requirements

• Contact information
• Detailed project description
• Description of artist's background and proficiency in their medium, along with a work sample
• Community engagement plan
• Evaluation plan to determine project success
• Project budget

Key Dates

• Applications open: April 1, 2027
• Submission deadline: June 1, 2027 at midnight (no extensions or exceptions)
• Funding awarded: by July 2027
• Project completion deadline: June 30, 2028

Award & Funding

Selected artists will receive $10,000 and enter into a contractual agreement with the Arts and Culture Department. Funding is provided by Lodgers' Tax through the city's Arts & Culture Department and applications are juried by the Arts Commission and a volunteer advisory committee.

Contact

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 505-955-6707
• Address: 201 W. Marcy St., PO Box 909, Santa Fe, NM 87501
• Hours: Monday–Friday 8:30 am–5:30 pm