The Creative Fellowship

Helping emerging artists put the pieces together.

Are you an emerging creative ready to elevate your art and community? The Future Is Black presents The Creative Fellowship in partnership with the Origins Network, X Liberator Network, and Brew House Arts. The Fellowship is an immersive 8-month accelerator designed to supercharge opportunities for local emerging creatives from diverse backgrounds. The program focuses on skill development, capacity building, and networking through monthly community design labs. Each design lab session employs experiential learning and human-centered design principles to foster growth and professional development. Participants will gain enhanced visibility, expanded sales channels, business and branding, technical assistance, networking opportunities, and increased skills and knowledge to thrive as professional artists.

Learn, Grow, Thrive

KEY COMPONENTS:

  • Cohort-Based Learning: 10-15 applicants will be selected as fellows to learn as a cohort.
  • Monthly Community Design Labs: Enhance marketability, boost sales, and secure opportunities to showcase art.
  • Technical Assistance: Personalized business and branding consultations.
  • Networking: Opportunities to connect with industry professionals and peers.
  • Art Showcases: Participants will showcase their work during the program.
  • Certificate: Participants will receive a certificate of completion and become part of a lasting alumni community of artists.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE:

Bridgeway Capital at the Wilkinsburg Train Station
901 Hay Street | Lower Level
Wilkinsburg, PA 15221

Saturdays from 12 pm - 2 pm:

August 29th, 2024 (Orientation) | September 14th, 2024 | October 12th, 2024

November 9th, 2024 | December 14th, 2024 | January 11th, 2026

February 8th, 2026 | March 8th, 2026 | April 12th, 2026

Exhibition Showcase: April 17th, 2026

How to Apply

Where do I apply?
View the instructions on the application page to guide your submission.

APPLY

Who can apply?
Emerging creatives who are committed to their craft and interested in developing a thriving creative ecosystem are encouraged to apply. Recommended for ages 18+.

What are the application deadlines?
The application deadline is July 24, 2024.

What materials are required for the application?
Applicants need to submit a portfolio of their work, a personal statement, and professional
references.

Is there an application fee?
There is no application fee for The Creative Fellowship.

When will I be notified about my application status?
Applicants will be notified of their status within a month after the application deadline.

Cost and Commitment

What is the cost of the program?
The program fee is $80. Payment plans, scholarships, and financial aid options are available upon acceptance into the program.

When and how is the payment expected to be made?
Payment is expected at the beginning of the program. Details about the payment process will be provided upon acceptance into the program.

What does the program fee cover?
The program fee covers participation in all scheduled activities, access to resources, technical assistance, and support from mentors and consultants.

Are there any additional costs?
Participants may incur additional costs for materials or travel associated with the art showcases.

What are the attendance requirements?
Participants are expected to attend all scheduled activities and events unless there are
extenuating circumstances.

What is the policy on absences or tardiness?
Regular attendance is crucial. Participants must inform the program coordinators in advance if they anticipate any absences or tardiness.

What are the program’s behavioral expectations?
Participants will set community agreements together in the first meeting. Participants are
expected to engage respectfully and professionally, contributing to a positive and collaborative environment.

What happens if I need to withdraw from the program?
Participants who need to withdraw should notify the program coordinators as soon as possible.

Will I get a refund if I withdraw?
Withdrawal policies and any potential financial implications will be outlined in the program agreement.

Connect

For more information and questions, please get in touch with the program coordinators at [email protected].