Emerging Artists Program

Oakland Art Murmur is proud to introduce the Emerging Artist Program as part of our biannual East Bay Open Studios. The new Emerging Artist Program reflects Oakland Art Murmur’s commitment to cultivating creativity, diversity, and inclusivity within the East Bay’s vibrant arts community. The program is designed to support emerging visual artists who are at the beginning of their careers and have limited experience exhibiting and selling their work.

Through the pilot phase of the program, we aim to reduce barriers to entry and provide critical resources that empower new artists to grow and thrive. Up to ten emerging artists will receive a discounted or waived participation fee (depending on their need), ensuring greater accessibility to East Bay Open Studios. Additionally, they will be featured prominently in marketing campaigns and materials, connecting them with audiences and collectors across the region. Participants will also have access to professional development opportunities designed to support their growth as artists.

By creating opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their talent and connect with the local arts community, this program reflects Oakland Art Murmur’s mission to support and strengthen artistic vibrancy in the East Bay. After the successful launch of our pilot program, we hope to expand this program to provide even greater support for emerging artists and deepen its impact on the community.

Studio of Meghan Shimeck

Eligibility:

  • East Bay visual artists at the beginning of their careers with less than two years of experience in exhibiting and selling their artwork (outside of a school setting).

  • Visual Arts are: painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, photography, mixed media, fiber arts, installation, and folk art.  Artists whose primary work falls outside these categories may also be considered, provided their practice fits within the broad definition of visual arts.

  • Artists must be 18 years or older.  

  • Applicants must reside in Alameda County.

  • Applicants cannot be enrolled in an arts degree at the time of the start of the program.

Application Components:

  1. Artist Statement:  Provide a short artist statement ( up to 200 words) about your vision and inspiration as an artist along with a description of what your creativity entails (medium).

  2. Statement of Intent: Provide a brief statement of intent (up to 200 words) that explains why you want to be considered for the Emerging Artist Program, your professional goals, and how the opportunity will support your development.

  3. Professional Experience Assessment: Have you exhibited your work in professional galleries or events before? If yes, please provide brief details.

  4. Portfolio: Submission of a portfolio (website link) or up to 5 high-quality images showcasing recent work. Each image should include a title, medium, size, and date of creation in the title of the file.

  5. Demographic Information: Questions to collect demographic data to ensure diverse representation (e.g., age, ethnicity, gender identity).