The Terra Foundation for American Art actively supports projects that interrogate and broaden definitions of American art.
The foundation awards grants for programs that foster exchange and collaboration, such as workshops, symposia, and colloquia, through its Convening Grants program. Programs should advance innovative and experimental research and professional practice in American art and address the field’s critical issues. The foundation also invites requests for convenings to inform projects in their early stages, which will benefit from the learning and practice that can develop through dialogue. These programs are intended for scholarly and public audiences. Programs designed primarily for the general public, travel grants, fellowship programs, research databases, and capital expenditures are not eligible for funding through this program.
Recognizing current and historical inequities in the presentations and understandings of American art history, the Terra Foundation encourages convenings that address these disparities and exclusions at institutions worldwide.
To be considered, visual art projects should focus on the arts of the United States, including Native American arts. Projects can be focused on historical or contemporary art. Contemporary art projects should offer a reflective and critical engagement with histories, arts, and/or art histories associated with American contexts. Projects with a primary goal of influencing practice change should also demonstrate an engagement with the field of American art.
Convening grants are typically between $10,000 and $25,000 unless an award outside this range is warranted by unusual circumstances. Up to 20 percent of a Terra Foundation grant may offset direct administration costs, and up to 15 percent of a Terra Foundation grant may apply to indirect costs. The foundation prefers not to be the sole outside contributor to an event.
Applicants must be tax-exempt as defined by section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or the international equivalent.
The current deadline is for programs taking place after January 1, 2024. Letters of inquiry are due April 3, 2023, and selected applicants will be invited to submit a proposal due June 16,