Opportunities for Artists

It is another week of opportunities.

1. Embracing Our Differences Submit Art 2026 Exhibition.

Deadline: 1 July

Artists can participate in the Embracing Our Differences Submit Art 2026 Exhibition.
Benefits:
👉🏾 $2,000 each for three separate awards.
👉🏾 Exhibition.
Apply here

2. The Kyoto Retreat Residency for Creatives.

Deadline: 15 July.

This 4-week immersive residency in Kyoto invites artists, curators, and writers to explore the city’s rich tapestry of tradition, nature, and contemporary expression. 

Benefits:
👉🏾 $800.
Apply here

3. Music Business for Africa’s Waitlist.

Deadline: 31 July

Participants in the MBA for Africa 2025/26 Programme will undergo rigorous, practical training tailored to prepare future leaders in Africa’s music industry. Throughout the programme, you’ll collaborate in teams, gain direct insights from seasoned professionals, and actively contribute to real-world projects in areas such as A&R, marketing, music law, distribution, and artist management. Success in this role demands enthusiasm, dedication, teamwork, and a drive to learn and perform at a professional industry level.
Benefits:
👉🏾 Not Available
Apply here

4. Sauti Za Busara 2026 Artist Call.

Deadline: 31 July.

Artists chosen to perform at the 23rd edition of the Sauti za Busara festival will take the stage in Stone Town, Zanzibar, from February 6–8, 2026. Performances should feature original music deeply connected to African cultural traditions and socially meaningful themes. All acts must deliver captivating, fully live shows, engage in media appearances and networking activities, and uphold a high level of professionalism throughout the event. The festival particularly encourages participation from women-led groups, up-and-coming artists, and those whose music conveys powerful social messages.
Benefits:
Not available
Apply now

5. The 1952 Art Accelerator.

Deadline: 20 July

The 1952.africa Art Accelerator is back for its 4th edition with the theme “Between Here and Elsewhere”. Open to West African artists aged 18–35, the 3-month residency explores movement, identity, and connection through any medium.

The MIJ Mentorship Programme, led by @MayaJama, offers a 6-month mentorship for women from underrepresented backgrounds in the creative industry. Open to those early in their careers across TV, fashion, comms, broadcasting, and talent management. Five women will be matched with mentors from Maya’s network.
Benefits: 👉🏾 Includes mentorship, resources, and a chance to grow your creative practice.
Apply here

6. The 14th Manga Kingdom Tottori International Comic Art Contest..

Deadline: 31 August.

Artists can apply for the 14th Manga Kingdom Tottori International Comic Art Contest.
Benefits:
👉🏾100,000 Yen + certificate for Merit Award.
👉🏾50,000 Yen + certificate for Selection Committee Award.
👉🏾30,000 Yen worth of commemorative gifts + certificate for U-15 Youth Manga Artist Prize.
Apply now

7. The Liu Shining Artist Grant.

Deadline: 31 August.
Artists can apply for the 2025 Liu Shining Artist Grant.
Benefits:
👉🏾 $5,000 grant.
Apply now

8. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than A Mother” 2025.

Deadline: 30 September.

African singers and musical artists are encouraged to create and submit an original song that addresses important social issues, including infertility stigma, girls’ education, women’s empowerment, child marriage, female genital mutilation (FGM), and gender-based violence. Submissions should include an audio file or YouTube link along with the complete lyrics. The goal is to harness the power of music to drive social change and raise awareness within communities.
Benefits:
$500
Apply now