The James Parker “Open Door” Grant

The James Parker “Open Door” Grant, hosted by Artspace Gallery in Richmond, VA, supports the growth of early-career, under-resourced, and underrepresented artists. The award provides up to $2,000 in direct funding, a 1-year Artspace Artist Membership ($480 value), dedicated mentorship, an Exhibition Committee Fellowship, and a culminating public exhibition or event in 2027–2028. Free to apply.

Artspace Gallery is proud to announce the James Parker “Open Door” Grant, created to amplify the voices of Richmond, VA artists from all backgrounds, particularly those identifying with underrepresented races and ethnicities, early-career creators, or under-resourced artists. By removing financial and institutional barriers, this opportunity aims to significantly change the winning artist's career trajectory.

The James Parker “Open Door” Fund was established in 2026 at Artspace to honor the memory of our dear friend, former member, and dedicated artist, James Parker, through a generous donation from his widow, Beq Parker. True to James’ spirit of inclusion and mentorship, the grant ensures that Artspace remains a place where local creators find a seat at the table and a wall for their work.

Award & Privileges ($2,500+ Total Value):

Financial Award: Up to $2,000 to support project development, equipment, materials, and execution.

1-Year Artspace Artist Membership: Full Artist Member privileges and responsibilities for one year (waiving monthly dues valued at $480). Includes active involvement in gallery operations and exhibitions in Richmond, VA.

Dedicated Mentorship: At least three 1-hour sessions with a seasoned Artspace Artist member covering project management, budgeting, and exhibition planning.

Culminating Public Event: A solo exhibition, performance, workshop, or open studio event hosted or supported by Artspace in 2027–2028.

Exhibition Committee Fellowship: Participation on the Artspace Exhibition Committee in an advisory and advocacy capacity at the start of your membership, contributing to the selection and vision of future exhibitions.

Key Timeline:

Call Opens: October 16, 2026

Application Deadline: November 27, 2026

Stage 1 Review (Portfolio & Proposal Evaluation): November 28 – December 11, 2026

Stage 2 Review (Top 3 Finalist Interviews): December 18 – 25, 2026

Winner & Alternate Announced: January 6, 2027

To keep the application accessible for beginning and under-resourced artists, selection focuses on project potential rather than a traditional CV or resume:

Visual Work Samples: Up to 5 images, media files, or web links showcasing recent work.

Geographic Eligibility Verification: Residency in the Richmond, VA metro area. 

Project Proposal: A brief description of the project or body of work to be completed in 2027.

Narrative Statement: In place of a resume, answer the following two prompts:

How will the $2,000 award and Artspace’s resources (membership, mentorship, and gallery space) help you acquire the specific materials or professional support currently missing from your practice?

Looking ahead to the end of 2027, how will this year of support and community help you take the next big step in your work that feels out of reach right now?

Resource & Support Plan: Detail the specific tools, materials, or professional services (e.g., fabrication, specialized equipment, transportation, archival supplies) essential to bringing your project to life, and how this grant will help you secure them.

Primary Medium / Artistic Practice: What is the primary medium or discipline of your proposed work?

Geographic Location: Applicants must reside within the Richmond, VA metropolitan area. Selected artists must live locally to actively participate in programs, events, and daily gallery operations (including gallery sitting and Fourth Friday support) at Artspace in Richmond, VA.

Mediums: Open to artists and creators working in any medium, including fine art, performance, craft, design, educational programming, or interdisciplinary media.

Target Audience: Beginning, early-career, or under-resourced creators facing socio-economic barriers or lacking formal institutional support. Applicants seeking funds to complete an ambitious project (e.g., a major installation, complex performance, or new body of work) where idea development and potential are key.