Short Description
The Camille J. Gage Fellowship, hosted by YWCA Minneapolis, honors Minnesota-based artists whose work at the intersection of art and activism has made a lasting community impact. Named after Camille J. Gage—a beloved activist, community builder, and creative force in Minneapolis—the Fellowship celebrates her legacy by providing significant financial support and public recognition to amplify artists’ contributions.
The Fellowship celebrates the legacy of Camille J. Gage by honoring artists who integrate art with activism. It emphasizes community service, transformative creative practice, and the power of art to bridge cultural communities and inspire social change.
Award Period: 2025–2026 (one-year term)
Award Amount: $45,000 Fellowship stipend
Additional Funding: At the start of the term, the Fellow receives $2,500 to develop a project proposal, with up to 10% of the total award (i.e. $4,500) available for professional development opportunities.
Timeline:
Application Opens: January 2025
Application Deadline: March 3, 2025
Notification: March 2025
Public Announcement: April 2025
Fellowship Term Ends: April 2, 2026
Submission Requirements:
While specific document requirements are provided on the application portal, applicants should be prepared to demonstrate:
A robust body of work that reflects community engagement and activist practice.
Clear evidence of how their creative work amplifies diverse voices and fosters a just, welcoming community.
Selection Process:
Applications and nominations are reviewed by a committee of YWCA Minneapolis leaders and collaborators. The Fellow is selected based on the quality of their artistic practice, commitment to activism, and potential to further impact their community through the Fellowship’s support.
How to Apply:
Artists may apply directly or be nominated—with collaboration between nominators and prospective Fellows encouraged. Detailed application criteria and FAQs are available on the YWCA Minneapolis website. The selection committee, comprised of YWCA Minneapolis leaders, close collaborators of Camille Gage, and community members, will choose the awardee.
Eligibility
Must reside and work in Minnesota.
Should have a body of work that gathers and amplifies diverse artistic voices and fosters transformational community building.
Must demonstrate a deep commitment to using art as a tool for activism—bringing art out of formal spaces and into the community, especially for marginalized voices.
Program Benefits or Awards
$45,000 stipend for a one-year fellowship
$2,500 seed funding to develop a project proposal at the fellowship’s start
Up to $4,500 available for professional development as part of the project
Public recognition at the Empower Possible event and through YWCA Minneapolis communications
Partnership with YWCA Minneapolis to promote the Fellow’s work and further community engagement
Entry Fee:
None
Location:
United states (Minneapolis)
Deadline:
March 3, 2025
Website link:
Apply link:
https://form.jotform.com/250225101619142
