Inspiring A Collaborative, Creative Future for Cincy’s Arts

What happens to Cincy’s creative landscape when local artists receive support through a transformative grant program? ArtsWave has been exploring that question since 2020 with its Inspire Artist Grants program, which returns in 2026 for its sixth year.

Fostering Creativity and Cultural Dialogue in Cincinnati

ArtsWave recently awarded 2026 Inspire Artist Grants to 24 local artists. The initiative provides funding for new projects from each artist, as well as comprehensive support to explore the themes of “Truth” and “Inspiration” while envisioning a more equitable future through creative work.

The program is a cornerstone of ArtsWave’s broader mission to strengthen sustainability for artists and organizations dedicated to preserving and advancing BIPOC arts and culture in our region.

Diverse Voices, Diverse Mediums

This year’s funded projects showcase the rich diversity of Cincinnati’s artistic community, spanning film, performance art, visual art and more. Each project offers a unique perspective on themes of migration, heritage and the BIPOC experience in Cincinnati.

Among the notable recipients is K.A. Simpson, a multi-year grant awardee who will create a spoken word album exploring the complex intersection of memory and identity. Jay Kalagayan’s historical fiction comic series, another supported project, uncovers the fascinating but often overlooked story of the first Filipinos in North America. Derrick Smith’s short film and accompanying album will tell the story of a radio host who gives advice to listeners with housing issues while navigating problems of his own.

Beyond Financial Support: Building Artistic Careers

The Inspire Artist Grants program takes a holistic approach to artist development. Recipients receive more than just funding. They gain access to professional development opportunities, including:

• Writing workshops
• Project management training
• Business development sessions

Throughout the grant cycle, artists will collaborate closely with ArtsWave staff and local artist Michael Thompson, who serves as both mentor and guide to help bring each creative vision to life. New in 2026, the program introduces a special category specifically designed for emerging artists, providing additional mentoring and career guidance throughout the project cycle and creating pathways for the next generation of Cincy’s creative voices.

Community Collaboration

The Inspire Artist Grants are all about partnership. The program is made possible through collaborations with the City of Cincinnati, Duke Energy, the Greater Cincinnati Foundation and the Contemporary Arts Center.

Each artist, in turn, will use an element of community collaboration in the creation of their projects. The program culminates in a professional showcase and exhibition at the Contemporary Arts Center in July 2026, giving the public an opportunity to experience these important works firsthand.

Supporting Cincy’s Creative Future

By investing in individual artists, ArtsWave continues to strengthen the region’s cultural ecosystem, ensuring diverse perspectives are not only heard but celebrated. These grants are more than financial support. They’re an investment in the stories, voices and creative expressions that make our community vibrant and inclusive.

For more information about this year’s Inspire Artist Grants, including a full list of the selected projects, visit artswave.org/inspire.