Made possible through the generosity of local artists, the Artist Support Grant will award two artists $1,000 each in unrestricted funding.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — One Columbia for Arts and Culture is pleased to announce the launch of its Artist Support Grant, a new artist-funded initiative designed to provide direct financial assistance to artists living and working throughout the Midlands of South Carolina. Made possible through the generosity of artists investing in their fellow creatives, the grant will award two artists $1,000 each in unrestricted funding to help sustain their creative practices and address the needs that impact their ability to create.
Unlike traditional arts grants that require funding to be used for specific projects, exhibitions, or performances, the Artist Support Grant recognizes that supporting artists means supporting the people behind the work. Recipients may use the funds at their discretion, whether for art supplies, professional development, medical expenses, transportation, household bills, or other personal and professional needs.
“Artists contribute so much to the cultural identity, economic vitality, and overall quality of life in our communities, but we don’t always recognize the challenges they face in sustaining their work,” said Xavier Blake, Executive Director of One Columbia for Arts and Culture. “What makes this grant particularly special is that it is funded by artists who understand those challenges firsthand and want to support their fellow creatives. It’s a powerful example of what happens when artists invest in one another and in the strength of their creative community.”
The Artist Support Grant is open to emerging and established artists working in any creative discipline, including visual arts, performing arts, literary arts, music, film, design, and multidisciplinary practices.
Eligibility Requirements Applicants must:
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Reside in one of the 12 counties that make up the Midlands region of South Carolina.
- Maintain an active artistic or creative practice in any discipline.
One Columbia has designed the application process to be short and accessible, recognizing that complicated application requirements can create unnecessary barriers for artists seeking support. Assistance is available for individuals who need help completing the application.
The Artist Support Grant also represents a unique model of community investment. By creating an opportunity for artists to directly support other artists, the initiative demonstrates the importance of collaboration, mutual support, and shared responsibility for sustaining a healthy creative ecosystem.
“We often talk about investing in the arts, but investing in the arts also means investing in artists as people,” Blake added. “Sometimes the most meaningful investment in an artist isn’t funding their next project. It’s helping them take care of themselves so they can continue creating. The fact that artists themselves are making this possible speaks volumes about the generosity and collaborative spirit of our creative community.”
One Columbia hopes the Artist Support Grant will not only provide immediate financial assistance but also inspire continued investment in the well-being and sustainability of artists throughout the Midlands.
How to Apply
Artists interested in applying for the Artist Support Grant can visit www.onecolumbiasc.com for application information.
Applications are being accepted through November 16, 2026.
For questions about eligibility or assistance with the application, contact [email protected].
About One Columbia for Arts and Culture
One Columbia for Arts and Culture is the designated local arts agency for the City of Columbia, South Carolina. Through advocacy, public art, cultural programming, artist support, and community partnerships, One Columbia works to strengthen and connect the creative community while expanding access to arts and cultural experiences. The organization is committed to building a more vibrant, inclusive, and connected Columbia through the power of arts and culture.
Learn more at www.onecolumbiasc.com/what-we-do/artist-support-grant/.
Media Contact
One Columbia for Arts and Culture
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.onecolumbiasc.com
Columbia, South Carolina