Pollock-Krasner Foundation — international grant of up to $50,000 for professional artists
The Pollock-Krasner Foundation is one of the most enduring and respected private art foundations in the world. For more than thirty years, it has supported artists for whom art is their primary profession and way of life.
This is not a project competition or a residency. It is financial support for artistic practice itself — without any ties to a specific theme, format or outcome.
History and results of the foundation
The foundation was established in 1985 by artist Lee Krasner, one of the key figures of 20th-century abstract expressionism. The original idea behind the foundation was to give artists the time, space and financial stability to continue their work.
Over the years, the foundation has awarded nearly 5,000 grants to artists and organisations in 79 countries, totalling more than $84 million. It is one of the few examples of long-term and consistent support for artists around the world.
What the fund finances
The grant can be used flexibly, based on the artist’s actual needs. Funds are usually allocated for the creation of new works, the purchase of materials, studio rental, exhibition preparation, participation in residencies, or to cover living expenses during periods of active work.
The foundation does not require a specific project or report on results. The focus is on the artist’s practice and professional trajectory.
Who can apply
Professional artists from around the world working in
the fields of painting, sculpture and graphic art are eligible to apply. It is important that the artist is already actively exhibiting and has a proven exhibition history in galleries or museums.
The Foundation does not support students, commercial art, photography, video art, performance art, cinema, crafts, or digital or generative practices. This is a fundamental position of the Foundation, linked to its history and mission.
Grant amount and terms
The amount of support can reach $50,000. The specific amount is determined individually and depends on the artist’s circumstances, the scale of their practice, and their professional experience.
Applications are accepted year-round, with no deadlines. Review takes 9 to 12 months, so this grant should be considered as strategic support rather than urgent funding.
How to apply
Applications are submitted online. They must include a questionnaire, a cover letter, a description of the applicant’s artistic practice, a CV with exhibition history, and 10 digital images of works created over the last ten years. Image
quality is very important. The works themselves are the key element in the selection process and are reviewed by an independent expert committee.
International status
The Foundation operates globally and accepts applications from artists from different countries. To date, grant recipients represent more than 80 countries. Restrictions are only related to US sanctions legislation — in such cases, it is necessary to contact the Foundation in advance.
Who is this grant particularly suitable for
This grant is suitable for artists who are already working professionally, exhibit regularly and need time and resources to continue their work rather than project support.
This is not a quick grant or a career start. It is a form of trust in the artist and their practice.
