ArtSpark
ArtSpark is a transformative career development program created to fuel the creativity of Maricopa County’s next generation of artists. Open to recent high school and post-secondary graduates, the ten-month program provides more than just resources. It empowers emerging visual and performing artists to turn their passion into a sustainable career. Through funding, mentorship, workshops, and community engagement, ArtSpark equips young creators with the tools to thrive professionally while contributing to the cultural and economic vitality of our region.
Program Details
Each year, 10 to 15 emerging artists are selected for funding and receive:
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Funding: A $5,000 stipend plus up to $5,000 in cost reimbursement for a community engagement project.
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Workspace: Access to subsidized space to create work.
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Training: Workshops in business development, marketing, and finance.
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Mentorship and Workshops: Required attendance throughout the ten months.
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Community Engagement: Development of artistic outreach projects in the community, supporting an entrepreneurial mindset and launching a creative career that sparks the local economy.
By the end of the program, participants leave with strengthened artistic practices, professional skills, and the confidence to spark meaningful impact in both the creative sector and the local economy.