Hard work and the right resources are critical components of a successful career. But do you know what is equally – if not maybe even more important? The belief that you can do this. Maybe it sounds hokey to say, but if you don’t start from a place of believing you have it in you to build the career you want, it simply won’t happen. As an independent artist, you are an entity unto yourself. You are the artist, the publicist, the manager, the bookkeeper, the whole package. And if you start from a place where you struggle to accept that this is something you can make a reality, your first task is to reframe that mindset. We are here to tell you that this can be done. We have seen it again and again. All you need is the right attitude – and of course the skills and resources to conquer the art world. Here are a few opportunities to motivate some positive thinking.
The Al & Mickey Quinlan Residency is an 8-week Midwest artist program at Dome House, running August 4–September 28, 2025, fostering creativity and public engagement in partnership with Miller Art Museum. Learn more at the website. Deadline for applications is April 7.
The Woodman Family Foundation Housing Stability Grant provides $30,000 over three years to NYC-based visual artists facing housing insecurity, supporting stable housing to foster their creative practice and career sustainability. To learn more, visit the website. Deadline for applications is April 8.
Mudflat’s one-year clay residency offers a private studio, 24/7 access, stipends for materials and housing, teaching and sales opportunities, and a solo exhibition. Visit the website to learn more. Deadline for applications is April 16.
Praxis Center believes in artists. Even when they aren’t sure they believe in themselves, we are there to keep up the momentum, offering a vast suite of resources to help you find the career you have always wanted. Our artists bring the passion, we show them how to put it to work. Give Praxis a try today and see how far it can take you.
Brainard Carey is an author, artist and educator. He is the director of Praxis Center for Aesthetics and is currently faculty at the School of Visual Arts in NYC. He has written seven books for artists, including Making it in the Art World. His seventh book, The Problems in the Art World: An Artist’s A-Z Action Guide, is available now.
Photo credit: Woodman Family Foundation