There is no easy remedy or solution to overcoming the constant rejection or disappointments from being rejected. However, below are the positive steps you could take in getting that grant to be yours.
Never stop applying:
There are few artist grants than there are qualified artists. Therefore, submit an entry to as many artist grants that you can find because there is no guarantee the only one you submitted the entry for will accept you.
Also, You should never stop applying even if all the grants you registered for did not pick you. It is not all the grant winners out there who get accepted on their first entry.
Apply wisely:
Don’t submit applications to grants you did not meet their criteria. As much as it is said that you apply and apply again, do so to only grants which requirements you meet. Consider the purpose of the grant and how relevant it is to your work or style.
Be wise to do your research even if the procedure might be tedious. This helps you not to waste resources and understand what the grant is looking for in an artist. Before applying, explore past winners of such grants. Doing this helps you understand the areas you might need to improve on.
Submission fee:
Most people concentrate on the grant money, not the entry fee. If it is not something you can save up or have then don’t waste time applying for the grant. In relation to the entry fee, ask yourself, if you would be able to afford the money needed to get the materials for the work you hope to submit after paying the entry fee. Because of some grants requirements for new works.
Evaluate how much resources it will cost you to apply and partake in the grant if you are chosen because not all grants support you with funds to make the artwork for the entry made.
Design and write applications structured specifically for the different grants:
Some people would use the same outline and content for applying for all grants. The jury committee of the grant might detect the lack of effort committed to writing your applications to suit their grant. When you research the grant, you will get valid points that can be used in your applications.
Nonetheless, it is important, to be honest in your applications because grant givers need to know they can rely upon you eventually when they give you the grant. For instance, when submitting proposals, if it is not directly linked with what is practicable, your grant application might be refused. Always show in your applications how your artwork is important to you and the world especially.
Always be at alert for any grant opportunity:
You need to be ready to apply for grants. Ensure that your artworks are properly stored, and photographed as much as you can. This means you should be organized.
Applying for grants is really stressful and demanding but the best of things in the world are starting from making ART itself. Understand that there are tendencies for being rejected. So, prepare your mind for that while at the same time you put great efforts into the application process.
Importantly, self-belief and faith in one’s abilities are essential. Same way hard work and consistency help you succeed. These are weapons you will need to win the grant when you are picked or overcome the negative feelings when you are rejected.
Read more: 2020 Grants Artist grants and opportunities Two
Read more: Habits you should overcome to become a successful artist