Iowa Artist Fellowship

Originating Iowa artists age 25 or older who are full-time Iowa residents and practicing at a pivotal career stage may apply for this competitive fellowship. Eligible disciplines include visual and performing arts, film, music, and creative writing. Past fellowship recipients are ineligible.

Fellows receive a $10,000 grant disbursed over the fellowship year (July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027), plus professional development opportunities such as peer learning, mentorship, and grant-panel service.

The full application deadline is 11:59 p.m. on April 1 each year. Applicants are notified within about eight weeks. The program page showed the 2026 cycle closed in July 2026.

The Iowa Arts Council funds the fellowship through an annual state legislative appropriation to support exceptional Iowa artists committed to advancing their practice and engaging Iowans.