APPLY NOW! $50K FELLOWSHIPS IN LIVE ARTS AND FILM & MUSIC
Now through January 15, 2026, metro Detroit artists can apply for a Kresge Artist Fellowship.
Kresge Artist Fellowships are $50,000 each for 10 artists residing in Wayne, Oakland, or Macomb county. Eligible artists are invited to apply for the no strings attached prize. See guidelines for eligibility requirements.
DEADLINE
JANUARY 15, 2026 by 11:59 PM
There are no exceptions to this deadline.
The 10 Kresge Artist Fellows and 10 Gilda Award recipients will be selected by an independent panel of distinguished local, regional, and national artists and arts professionals. Previous applicants are strongly encouraged to re-apply, as new panels, with fresh perspectives, are convened each year. The 2026 awards are in the following categories:
LIVE ARTS
Includes Choreography, Comedy, Dance, Performance Art, Playwriting, Storytelling, Theatre Directing, and Interdisciplinary Work
FILM & MUSIC
Includes Animation, Film Directing, Music Composition, Music Performance, Screenwriting, Sound Art, and Interdisciplinary Work
Kresge Arts in Detroit staff will hold an online application walkthrough info session in December, followed by a second online Q&A session in January. While not required, applicants are encouraged to attend these sessions, which are designed to support artists in crafting compelling applications for a Kresge Artist Fellowship. Artists can register to attend using the links below.
APPLICATION SUPPORT
Dec. 10, 2025:
Application walkthrough (virtual)
Jan. 8, 2026:
Application Q&A (virtual)
Artists are encouraged to review the 2026 guidelines for information regarding application recommendations, requirements, and support resources.