Organizer Information
Janel Young is an internationally recognized painter, muralist, and community advocate originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. After building a successful career in New York City, she returned to her roots with a mission to "wrap the city in color" through community-centered public art. Her work has been commissioned by major entities such as the U.S. Open, Yahoo!, and various city governments. In 2019, the City of Pittsburgh officially proclaimed October 23 as “Janel Young Day.” To honor the anniversary of this proclamation and to pay forward her success, Young founded the JY Originals Scholarship for Creatives through her studio, JY Originals LLC. The organizer is deeply committed to using visual arts as a communication tool for equity, healing, and social activism.
Title & Description
JY Originals Scholarship for Creatives (2025 Edition)
The JY Originals Scholarship is an annual award designed to support the next generation of creative thinkers and makers. Many young artists possess an enduring commitment to inspire their communities through creativity but face the harsh reality of financial barriers. This scholarship provides a flexible $1,000 grant to help a young creative bring their next idea to life. Whether the funding is used for materials, research, or travel, the program aims to provide the "breathing room" necessary for artistic experimentation and professional development.
Categories
The call is open to a wide array of artistic mediums and disciplines, including:
- Visual Arts: Painting, Drawing, Sculpture, Printmaking, and Public Art/Murals.
- Digital & Media: Photography, Video Art, and Digital Illustration.
- Design & Craft: Fashion Design, Textile Art, and Architecture.
- Performance & Sound: Dance, Performance Art, and Sound Art.
- Literary & Curatorial: Writing, Research, Social Practice, and Curating.
Eligibility
The scholarship is specifically targeted at early-career individuals who demonstrate both talent and a commitment to community inspiration:
- Age/Status: Open to "young adults" (typically interpreted as emerging artists or students).
- Discipline: Applicants must be pursuing a project or career in the arts (broadly defined).
- Mission Alignment: Preference is given to applicants who show a desire to use their creativity to inspire, heal, or advocate for social change.
- Residency: While based in Pittsburgh/NYC roots, the scholarship is generally open to applicants across the United States.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Monetary Award: A one-time scholarship of $1,000 USD.
- Recognition: The recipient is featured on Janel Young’s official website and social media channels (@jy.originals), providing significant visibility to a global audience.
- Professional Connection: Opportunities for mentorship or networking with Janel Young and her professional circle.
- Community: Inclusion in the "JYO Tribe," a network of previous recipients and supporters of the scholarship fund.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
Applicants are typically required to submit the following via the online form:
- Personal Information: Basic contact details and artistic background.
- Artistic Portfolio: Examples of recent work (images, links to video, or writing samples).
- Project Proposal/Motivation: A description of how the $1,000 will be used to further a current or future creative project.
- Impact Statement: A brief reflection on how the applicant’s work aims to inspire or impact others.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 31 December 2025
- Recipient Announcement: Typically early in the following year (January/February).
Location
United States/ Online
Additional Details
The JY Originals Scholarship is unique because it is "artist-funded." A portion of the proceeds from Janel Young’s own mural commissions and print sales goes directly into the scholarship fund. Supporters and community members are also encouraged to donate to the fund to increase the number of awards given each year. Applicants are encouraged to follow the JYO social media accounts for live Q&A sessions and updates during the application window.