The 2023 call for Detroit applications is currently closed
For the first time Knight Foundation announces a call for proposals from Detroit artists and arts organizations that leverage technology in their work.
Art practitioners are leveraging new and emerging technology to create works that serve broader audiences and create positive impacts. In support of this novel approach, we’re launching Knight New Work 2023 in Detroit for the first time. The month-long open call for proposals is aimed at Detroit-based artists and arts organizations that utilize technology in their work to foster meaningful connections between people and place.
In an effort to support Detroit’s ability to harness the arts as key to its future, Knight announced a $23 million investment in the digital future of the arts in Detroit earlier this year. This investment, the fourth since 2005, will bring Knight’s overall commitment to Detroit’s arts sector to more than $50 million and add to the foundation’s long history of supporting the arts in this vibrant city.
This new initiative, which premiered in Miami and with plans to expand to Knight cities across the country, will allocate a total of $250,000 for new works by a selection of winners. Applications will be reviewed by a national panel of artists, practitioners and Knight Foundation staff, and winners will be announced in the fall. For a complete list of frequently asked questions, see below.
HOW IT WORKS
Detroit-based artists or arts organizations across artistic genres can submit their 2023 Knight New Work proposal from June 20, 2023, through July 21, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Applicants are required to be based in or to have direct ties to metro Detroit, and their works must premiere in the area and must incorporate technology.
RESOURCES AND MORE INFORMATION
An information session will be held on Tuesday, June 20, 2023. Location will be announced soon. Additional questions can be sent to [email protected]. We will have office hours for anyone with questions, which you can register for here.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- When will the application period open and close?
Tuesday, June 20, 2023 through Friday, July 21, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. ET
- Who is eligible?
Individual artists, artist collectives and arts organizations of all artistic genres are eligible to apply. Individuals must be based in metro Detroit, or have direct ties to the area.
- Does my organization have to be based in Detroit?
Yes, organizations must be based in the metro Detroit area in order to apply. They can partner with individual artists from outside the area, provided that those individuals can demonstrate a deep connection to the city. All pieces must premiere in Detroit.
- I’m an artist and I’m not based in Detroit. Am I eligible to apply?
No, this opportunity is exclusively for artists based in metro Detroit. We encourage you to check back to kf.org/arts for future opportunities!
- What is the criteria for applying as an organization?
A Detroit-based arts organization, or an arts institution can submit an application. The creation of new work can be in any artistic genre, but must use technology in the creation and/or dissemination of the work.
- When do the premieres take place?
Works must be presented by June 2025.
- What happens after I submit my application?
After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by a national panel of artists, practitioners and Knight staff. Finalists will be announced in the fall.
- How many applications may an organization submit?
Each applying entity, whether an individual, collective, or organization is limited to one (1) application.
- How much money can I ask for?
Knight will award a total of $250,000 to a selection of winners. Grants will be awarded based on the merit of the proposal and the perceived ability of the arts practitioner to complete the work as proposed and within the given timeframe.
- Are letters of support required?
Yes. You must have a letter of support from a Detroit-based presenting partner(s) for the premiere of the new work.
- Can I add attachments to my application?
Yes. Applicants are asked to submit work samples, as well as supplemental materials to help describe or illustrate their new work concept or artistic practice.
- What kind of new works are you looking for?
The works can represent diverse artistic genres including performing arts, visual arts and film in addition to incorporating the use of technology. We are seeking projects that leverage technology to connect people to each other and to Detroit through the arts.
- How can I gain an edge in my application?
While there is no one magic phrase or secret ingredient to a competitive application, we are seeking works that are centered on impact. Winning works will reimagine how the arts are experienced through technology and will leverage technology to better tell stories, reach audiences and preserve art. The budget submitted must be thoughtfully considered and presented in the Knight Foundation format. See video here on preparing the budget.
- Is there a matching requirement for this grant?
Yes, for organizations with budgets greater than $500K.
- What are Knight’s funding priorities?
For a full explanation of the Knight’s strategy in the Arts program, please visit kf.org/arts
- Who reviews my entry and determines the grant recipients?
Knight staff and a national panel of experts from the field will review each idea. Ultimately, the final decision lies with the Knight Board of Trustees.
- Can I still apply if my project is just an idea?
Yes. Applications can be for entirely new projects or projects that are currently in development. The work must have not yet premiered, however.
- When will winners be announced?
Prize winners will be announced in the fall.
- If my proposal is not accepted, will I know why?
Due to the large number of applications we receive, we are unable to share with you the reason for your declination. If you are not selected this time, we encourage you to re-apply to future Knight New Work open calls or other Knight Arts initiatives.
- Who do I contact if I have questions?
Send questions to [email protected].
- Can I apply in another language that’s not English?
Yes, please feel free to submit your information in your language of choice. Please note that applications submitted in other languages other than English will be translated into English for the review process.