All applications are scored by a jury panel according to four categories: Unique and Compelling Concept and Programming; Artistic Merit; Community Impact; and Capacity and Sustainability. Evaluation criteria are specific to each grant program.
The application process is competitive, and awards are subject to the availability of funds.
A. REVIEW CRITERIA
Artistic Merit 30%
- Selected artwork demonstrates artistic excellence and high aesthetic quality (10 points).
- Curatorial statement explains the theme of the exhibition and makes clear connections to how each artist’s work relates to the exhibition (10 points).
- Curator has considered the unique architecture of the gallery space. Artworks selected activate the space and show visual cohesion. The exhibition proposal and/or optional rendering clearly defines the look of the exhibition (10 points).
Capacity and Sustainability 10%
- Budget for exhibition and associated programming are reasonable and achievable (5 points).
- Production of exhibition is feasible within time outlined in the exhibition schedule (5 points).
Unique, Compelling Concept and Programming 30%
- Selection of artwork is clear; curatorial premise demonstrates creative and original ideas or perceptions (10 points).
- Exhibition concept is fully developed and/or has potential and presents compelling ideas and/or has the potential to stimulate dialog with the visitors and community (10 points).
- Exhibit-related programs included in the proposed timeline are thoughtful, creative, and innovative (10 points).
Community Access & Engagement 30%
- The applicant shows intentional planning and implementation for the exhibition content and programming to promote a welcoming and inclusive environment for a diverse audience based on culture, age, physical ability, and languages spoken. (20 points).
- The exhibition offers emerging and underrepresented artists, specifically those without gallery representation, consistent group exhibition participation, and/or solo exhibitions within the last five years, the opportunity for exposure and ensures physical, geographic, cultural, and financial access for its artists, contractors, audiences, and participants. Where applicable, the applicant shows thoughtful engagement with a co-curator/mentee (10 points).
B. JURY SELECTION PROCESS
CAH selects individuals who are arts and/or humanities professionals, independent of CAH, to serve as advisory review panelists for each grant program. The role of a panelist is to review and score an eligible application’s content to the established grant program review criteria. Panelists participate in a group review of CAH grant applications, according to their cohort, to discuss and comment on the merits and deficiencies of applications and finalize their application-related scores in the presence of CAH staff and Commissioner Conveners.
CAH staff, Commissioner Conveners, and panelists remain impartial in their review of CAH grant applications. CAH ensures that all involved recuse themselves from review of any application that presents a personal or professional conflict of interest or the appearance of a conflict of interest.
CAH’s grant application evaluation process takes into consideration general standards of decency and respect for the diverse beliefs and values of the American public consistent with The National Foundation on the Arts and Humanities Act, as amended.
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