40 North | 88 West is calling on local artists to submit their artworks for a chance to become the official signature image of the 2025 Boneyard Arts Festival. The selected piece will be prominently featured across festival materials including registration packets, posters, billboards, and more. The submission deadline is January 27, 2025, at 11:59 pm. This festival, a staple in the local arts scene, will unfold from April 4th to 6th, offering a platform for artists to gain widespread recognition.

Regional Arts Partners Grants

In collaboration with the Illinois Art Council Agency and the National Endowment for the Arts, 40 North is also providing the Regional Arts Partners Grants. Four artists from Champaign County will each receive $2800 to fund their projects that need to be completed by July 2025. Applications are due by January 13, 2025. Workshops for interested applicants will be available both in person and via Zoom.

Urbana Poet Laureate Program

The City of Urbana continues to honor the poetic arts through its Poet Laureate Program. This role, which comes with a $2,000 honorarium, involves advocacy and outreach to promote poetry within the community from February 17, 2025, to February 1, 2026. The application deadline is February 2, 2025. The program underscores Urbana’s commitment to cultural enrichment through creative writing.

Best in Show Photographic Competition

Photography enthusiasts can participate in the 24th Annual Best in Show competition, hosted by the Champaign County Camera Club and Urbana Park District. Participants are invited to display their photographs at Lincoln Square Mall from February 8th to 23rd, 2025. Youth entries are free, with an early bird deadline on January 22 and final submissions due by January 29, 2025.

Creativity on Wheels

Creativity on Wheels offers a unique opportunity for artists over 60 living independently in Champaign and Douglas Counties. The program delivers bimonthly creativity boxes filled with art supplies and prompts, accompanied by monthly check-ins by volunteers. Artists contributing to these boxes receive a $300 stipend.

Common Ground Food Co-op Flatlander Gallery

Local artists are encouraged to apply for a chance to display their work at the Common Ground Food Cooperative’s Flatlander Gallery. This venue offers artists a chance to integrate their work into the urban community space, with installations lasting approximately six weeks.