About the Fellowship
The world is moved by stories and storytellers. Culture is changed by compelling narratives.
This fellowship supports immigrant creatives working in narrative art forms as they build their professional practice and network. Recognizing the unique hurdles that immigrant creatives in these fields may face, the six fellows selected for the Define American Creative Fellowship will participate in workshops and conversations around furthering their network and impact, be connected with additional resources, and supported in their community engagement efforts.
The Define American Creative Fellowship is open to creatives in narrative-oriented art forms (writing, filmmaking, visual storytelling, theater, illustration, spoken word, digital journalism, etc.) with at least some experience (professional or amateur) in their chosen medium. This program is uniquely suited to supporting artists who have a deep commitment to their local communities and further developing their creative practice as they shape narratives of American identity.
NOTE: In 2021, the fellowship will be all virtual.
Fellows will receive:
- $5,000 stipend
- Regular coaching check-ins with Define American staff
- Professional development workshops and facilitated conversations
- Tools to build community collaborations
- Introductions to experienced creatives in their field
- Opportunity to apply for additional project-based funding
Applications will be open December 7, 2020 to January 18, 2021. The application form will go live on December 7.
Application process:
- Please review the full fellowship expectations before applying
- Complete application form and upload portfolio
- Finalists will be contacted by email to schedule a phone interview in February
- Application deadline: January 18
Who should apply?
- Creatives in narrative-oriented art forms (writing, filmmaking, illustration, spoken word, etc.) with some amount of experience in their field.
- Immigrant Americans, regardless of current immigration status — undocumented, DACAmented, naturalized citizens, green card holders, refugees, asylum seekers, etc
- Creatives that can commit to participating in at least 6–8 90-minute workshops and facilitated conversations
- Creatives with a commitment to their local communities
- Creatives who will not be enrolled in a degree-seeking program during the length of this fellowship (March – September 2021)
- Must be at least 18 years old at time of application
Questions: Please contact the Creative Programs Manager Bethany Wearden ([email protected]).
The Define American Creative Fellowship is made possible through a grant from the Kresge Foundation.
