
Liu Shiming Art Foundation
Project-based grants of $5,000 USD for early-career visual artists worldwide, supporting new or in-progress work across sculpture, painting, drawing, installation
The 2026 Liu Shiming Artist Grants offer $5,000 USD in direct financial support to early-career visual artists anywhere in the world. Established in honour of Chinese sculptor Liu Shiming, whose practice explored figurative work and cultural storytelling, the foundation aims to remove financial barriers for artists at a pivotal stage of their development.
Grants are project-based — applicants must propose a specific artistic project they intend to develop or complete. This could involve production, research, or creative development across sculpture, painting, drawing, mixed media, or installation. The programme values artistic potential, conceptual clarity, and a strong sense of professional direction over commercial track record.
Funding is distributed in two stages: $3,000 on 15 January 2027 and a further $2,000 upon project completion.
Eligibility
To apply, you'll need:
Applications close 31 August 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by 2 December 2026.