Leigh Weimers Emerging Artists Awards

The Leigh Weimers Emerging Artists Awards give unrestricted cash grants to local artists in Santa Clara County who have shown extraordinary originality and dedication in their creative pursuits, but who have not enjoyed the recognition and rewards of being more widely known. Established by the Rotary Club of San Jose in memory and honor of Leigh Weimers—a longtime Mercury News columnist, supporter of the arts and a Rotarian—the awards are presented to outstanding artists residing in Santa Clara County in the visual arts, performing arts, written word and music who have yet to be widely recognized for their talent, vision and artistic accomplishments.

There is a minimum $1,000 cash prize, although recent awards have ranged from $3,000 to $5,000, depending upon fundraising success. Winners present their art to the Rotary Club of San Jose at one of its regular Wednesday luncheon meetings.

Entry fee is $10.00. Work samples may include 1-20 images, up to 3 audio files, and up to 3 video files. Eligibility is limited to local artists (Santa Clara County only).