The Bader + Simon Empowerment Grant

The Bader + Simon gallery, scheduled to open in 2025 in Cincinnati’s vibrant Over-The-Rhine neighborhood, will showcase the work of emerging, underrepresented artists and the subjects that matter most to them - subjects we all need to be exposed to.  Through two gallery spaces, Bader + Simon will present rotating shows with both local artists as well as a range of global artists with 100% of sale going directly to the artist. Through our programming, we strive to be collaborative visual activists working together to educate, enlighten, and create lasting change.

The Bader + Simon Empowerment Grant will commence in 2024 and will emphasize projects embedded in social justice. A recipient will be selected annually and participate in a show at the closing of the grant period with specific dates determined by the annual programming calendar. The recipient will be interviewed on the B+S with Friends podcast and be featured on the gallery website.

The grant application will open on January 1 and close on March 15, with funding beginning May 1.

Guidelines

Founded by the Bader + Simon Board of Directors in 2023, the Empowerment Grant will bring much-needed attention to underrepresented voices and themes. Art will be used to elicit dialogue, inquiry, and understanding to broaden the impact of our work. Community programming will enhance the theme of the exhibit. 

Grant total: One-time stipend of $7500. 

• $2500 upfront.  

• $2500 upon completion of the grant cycle and body of work to be displayed at Bader + Simon. (*dates TBD based on opening dates of gallery). 

• $2500 to be paid in monthly installments from May - December. 

• Online presentation and discussion of work to reflect the mission of Bader + Simon.

• Attendance at exhibition opening with an artist talk at the commencement of the event (travel and accommodations will be provided by the gallery).

• Check-ins with a representative from the grant panel via Zoom will occur every three months during the duration of the grant period.

• Create a body of work that will be presented at Bader + Simon.

• Work must accommodate Bader + Simon space. [Approximate gallery dimensions are 62’ x 16’ x 11’ high].

• Serve as a panelist for the following year's grant review. 

A short bio or resume with complete details on where you can be reached.

Tell us how you learned about the Bader + Simon Empowerment Grant?

Artist Statement (written or video format required).

• 250 - 500 words OR 3-5 minute video

Statement of Intent

• Tell us about your project, your development process, and how this grant will make a difference for you.

• In what ways does your work reflect and expand upon the mission of B+S.

Please provide a minimum of 5 images of work samples or 2-4 minute video.

Please provide the names and contact information of 3 references, one of which should provide a written or video recommendation.

Provide a budget and timeline for how funds will be used. 

The grant is for individual artists only. 

There will be a Zoom session on February 26, 2024 8pm EST to offer guidance and answer any questions. 

Application can be found here.