Fellowship Programs

The Luminarts Fellowship includes programs in Visual Arts, Creative Writing, Classical Music, and Jazz. In order to be eligible to apply for the Luminarts Fellowship applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 30, live within 150 miles of the Chicago Loop, and be enrolled in, or graduated from, a degree program, conservatory, or other professional artist development program. To apply for a Luminarts Fellowship or to learn about a specific program visit our Artist Opportunities page.

  How long does the application process take to complete?

The application process takes approximately five to ten minutes to complete online, once all required components are collected and attached to the application. Each program has specific components listed in the guidelines.

  What if I’m only 18 years old? Can I apply to the Fellowship?

Yes, Luminarts Fellowship programs are open to applicants between the ages of 18 and 30; however, if you are 18 years of age you must have already completed high school and be enrolled and actively attending a degree program, conservatory, or other professional artist development program to qualify for the Fellowship.

  I’m already 30 years old or I’m about to turn 31. Can I apply to the Fellowship?

Yes, as long as you are 30 years old on the date that you apply to the program. If you turn 31 years of age while your application is in progress and then if you are selected as a Fellow you will still be eligible to receive the award because you applied when you were 30.

  Can I apply for more than one Luminarts program?

You may apply to more than one program (e.g. visual arts and creative writing) within the same program year; however, you may only apply to a particular program one time within that program year. In addition, once an individual is selected as a Luminarts Fellow in a particular program they may not apply to another Fellowship program. Luminarts Fellows are eligible to apply for Project Grants, which are designated specifically for Fellows.

  When will I find out if I won?

Each program has its own notification timeline. Please check the program’s guidelines on the application for specific dates, deadlines, and notifications. For a complete listing of each Luminarts programs’ eligibility and guidelines visit Luminarts.org/guidelines.

Project Grants

  Can I apply for a Fellow Project Grant?

Only Luminarts Fellows may apply for Fellow Project Grants. Project Grant Proposals are reviewed twice per year, with the deadlines of October 15, and March 15.

  How do I know if Luminarts will fund my project?

Project grants are reviewed by multiple individuals in a committee approval format. Fellows are required to contact Executive Director Jason Kalajainen at jason@luminarts.org to discuss their project before submitting a grant proposal. For specific Project Grant guidelines and to apply visit our Artist Opportunities page.

  How much funding will I receive for my project grant?

Fellows who apply for project grants may request to have their project funded up to 50 percent by the Foundation, up to a total of $2,500. For example, if your project cost is $3,500 you may apply for up to $1,750, but if your project cost is $5,500 you may only apply for up to $2,500. In some instances when a project grant proposal is approved, Luminarts may consider funding less than the original requested amount, depending on a number of factors on a case by case basis. Furthermore, while Luminarts cannot guarantee funding to individuals, applicants are always encouraged to reach out to the Foundation with questions before submitting a project grant proposal. For specific Project Grant guidelines and to apply visit our Artist Opportunities page.