Independent Master Artist Projects Grant Program
Independent Master Artist Projects Grant Program supports accomplished Los Angeles artists creating new solo works in design, visual art, literature, and performance to advance their artistic development.
Funder: City of Los Angeles - Department of Cultural Affairs
Due Dates: October 31, 2025 (2025 cycle application) | November 13, 2026 (Next cycle application)
Funding Amounts: $10,000 listed for the 2025 cycle; next-cycle allocations may cover one or two years
Summary: Supports accomplished Los Angeles artists in creating new solo works in design, visual art, literature, and performance.
Key Information: Applicants must reside in Los Angeles County and demonstrate 15 years of artistic practice, or eight years for dancers/choreographers.
Description
The City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) administers the Independent Master Artist Projects program, known as COLA-IMAP, to support new mid-career solo work. The program honors avant-garde artists with distinguished records of independently producing and presenting work, sustained artistic development, and standing as respected peers and role models. Supported disciplines include design and visual art, literature, and performance, from architecture and fashion design to poetry, fiction, individual dance and music works, and solo multidisciplinary theater.
The next cycle supports new work created between fall 2027 and spring 2029. Artists bridging visual art and graphic design are especially encouraged to apply through the new Graphic Design category. DCA will promote selected artists through a printed and/or online catalog, with likely opportunities to present selections of new work through an online expo, gallery exhibition, or performance showcase.
