Discover the Fellowship that Connects Art, Civic Engagement, and Social Justice
The Utopian Practice Fellowship 2023 serves as a dynamic incubator for innovative ideas that bridge artistic expression, civic involvement, and social equity. This unique program, open to professionals from all disciplines, empowers individuals to push the boundaries of their creative practices.
Fellowship Overview
- Purpose: Cultivating transformative projects.
- Eligibility: Artists and professionals from any field.
- Selection: Three Fellows chosen per cycle.
Mission Insight
Before applying, delve into our mission.
Black Utopian Fellowship 2023
Embrace Pleasure as a Poetic Form of Resistance
In 2023, the Black Utopian Fellowship calls for project proposals centered around the concept of pleasure as a potent form of resistance. This is an opportunity to explore and celebrate pure ecstasy, unapologetic joy, and the satisfaction of needs beyond mere survival.
Project Themes
- Unpacking taboos around pleasure.
- Self-expression and identity.
- Witnessing the intricacies of gratification.
Timeline
- September 25, 2023, 11:59 PM ET: Open Call deadline.
- October 2023: Fellows notified.
- November/December 2023: Initial project discussions.
- October 2023 – October 2024: Ongoing support and strategy development.
Project Proposal Criteria
To be eligible for the Fellowship, projects must:
- Engage the public in alignment with our mission, including public talks, interactive events, skill-sharing, participatory performances, and more.
- Introduce a novel and previously unexplored idea within the applicant’s practice.
- Prioritize a series of events or actions over an exhibition or ‘show.’
- Occur during the Fellowship year.
- Take place within the 5 boroughs of NYC (with possible components outside this region).
What We Offer
The Utopian Practice Fellowship provides:
- Project Honoraria ($2000)
- Fiscal sponsorship for additional fundraising
- Strategic guidance from Culture Push staff
- Access to Materials for the Arts
- Networking opportunities
- Marketing support via Culture Push channels
- Mentorships with field experts
- Contributions to our online journal, PUSH/PULL
- Presentation at the annual Culture Push Symposium
- Exhibition opportunities alongside past and current Fellows
Please note that Culture Push does not provide project venues but assists Fellows in securing suitable locations.
Apply now for the Utopian Practice Fellowship 2023 and Black Utopian Fellowship to be part of a transformative community that celebrates creativity, civic engagement, and social justice. Join us in exploring the power of pleasure and resistance through art and culture.


