Artist Trust 2015 Arts Innovator Award

The Arts Innovator Award (AIA) recognizes artists who demonstrate innovation in their art practice. Two unrestricted awards of $25,000 each are given annually to Washington State generative artists of all disciplines who are originating new work, experimenting with new ideas, taking risks, and pushing the boundaries in their respective fields.

Eligibility: Individual generative artists or teams of artists with a history of working as a unit must have a minimum of five years in professional art practice, be a Washington State resident at the time of application and at the time of payment (April 2016), and be 18 years of age or older by November 23, 2015. Not eligible: graduate or undergraduate students enrolled in any degree program after November 23, 2015; current Artist Trust staff, board members, honorary committee members, consultants, contractors or their immediate family members; those affiliated with Chihuly Studio, Portland Press or the Dale and Leslie Chihuly Foundation; lineal descendants/ancestors of Dale or Leslie Chihuly; spouses of lineal descendants/ancestors of Dale or Leslie Chihuly; or previous recipients of the AIA.

Selection will be based on advancement of the artist's practice as evidenced by their body of work, creative excellence as presented in submitted work samples, and the professional background of the artist. Panelists comprised of artists and arts professionals will evaluate applications. All applicants will be notified of results via email, with announcements made in May 2016. Required submissions: Application Form, Artist Résumé, Essay, Work Samples (maximum 20 images, 3 audio files, and 3 video files), and a Letter of Recommendation.