Finding financial support for an exhibition

Finding financial support for an exhibition can be challenging, but there are a number of resources and strategies you can use to help fund your project.

“Creative coding is a way to express the inexpressible, to create beauty where there was none, and to uncover hidden patterns and connections in the world around us.” - Lauren McCarthy

Here are a few ideas for finding financial support for your exhibition:

Grants

There are a variety of grants available for artists and organizations that are creating exhibitions, particularly those working in new media or digital art. Some examples include the National Endowment for the Arts, the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, and the Creative Capital Foundation.

Sponsorship

You may be able to find sponsors for your exhibition who are interested in supporting your work and reaching your audience. This could include local businesses, corporations, or other organizations that have a connection to your work.

Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding platforms such as Kickstarter or GoFundMe can be a great way to raise money for your exhibition by soliciting donations from your audience or supporters. You may also be able to offer incentives or rewards for donors, such as exclusive access to the exhibition or other perks.

Fundraising events

Hosting fundraising events, such as benefit concerts or auctions, can be a way to raise money for your exhibition while also engaging with your community and supporters.

Partnerships

Partnering with other artists or organizations can be a way to share the costs of an exhibition and reach a wider audience. This could include co-curating an exhibition with another artist, or partnering with a non-profit organization that shares your mission and values.

It’s important to start planning and fundraising for your exhibition well in advance to give yourself plenty of time to secure funding and other resources. You may also want to consider working with a grant writer or fundraising consultant to help you develop your funding strategy and identify potential sources of support.