The Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) is dedicated to advancing the arts across the state. Its mission focuses on championing creative expression, diverse programming, equitable access, lifelong learning, and enhancing the quality of life through the arts for all Marylanders. MSAC aims to increase participation, provide intentional support, build capacity, leverage connections, and bolster the arts in Maryland, showcasing the work of artists and arts organizations to enrich community vitality.
The Public Art Across Maryland New Artworks program is designed to support independent artists and organizations in the development and creation of new public artworks within communities across Maryland. It encompasses support for community visioning activities and the planning processes essential for advancing a public art proposal, as well as funding for the creation and installation of the actual artwork. Funded projects can span various media and may be temporary or permanent installations, accessible freely and publicly. The program offers two distinct types of support: New Artworks Planning Grants, providing up to $10,000 for the development of public art proposals, including artist fees for design and proposal development; and New Artworks Project Grants, offering up to $50,000 for the fabrication and installation of new public artworks, requiring that the artwork be fully designed and developed through a community process at the time of application. Prospective projects and lead artists must be based in Maryland.