Dedicated to supporting emerging talent in visual art.

The Inception Grant was set up in 2020, soon after the first lockdown, with the prime focus of supporting and mentoring emerging talent in the visual arts. Interdisciplinary in nature, the grant has two subsidiaries – Inception Grant for Artists and Inception Grant for Art Writers.

INCEPTION GRANT FOR ARTISTS

This year we have 6 grants in total, 4 grants for artists and 2 grants for writers, 3 collaborations, and a year-long mentorship program. A total commitment of INR 7,00,000. Our internal jury will shortlist the artists that will be presented at the Inception Grant Finalist Show 2025.

The Grant is open to contemporary artists between the ages of 21-35 years from South Asia. It is more than just a financial aid to artists – awardees have access to our mentors & curators who assist them to develop their art practice through the year.

Criteria

Artists from South Asia ages 21-35 years (as of November 2024). Artists from India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka will be considered part of the process.
Practice must fit the contemporary genre. Format and media are not a constraint.
Illustrations, graphic design, decorative art, AI-generated art, video and animation are not within the mandate.
Applicants must be at an early stage of their careers, students, or emerging artists in the process of launching their careers.
Artists represented by any gallery are not eligible.
Applicants must be individuals (or part of a collective) applying on their own behalf.
Deadline: 30th September 2024
Please contact grant@artincept.com for any inquiry.

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SELECTION PROCESS

The internal jury will shortlist 18-20 applicants based on the provided information and portfolio.
If you are shortlisted, you will be required to send the selected physical works for review.
The external jury will evaluate and select 4 artists for the grant, including the Tacita Dean Award.
Grant winners will receive a cash prize and have access to our mentors for a period of 12 months.
Please note that the selection process is based on the discretion of the jury.

INCEPTION GRANT FOR ART WRITERS - In memory of Preet Mendiratta

Preet Mendiratta (1991- 2018), was a freelance writer, musician, art aficionado and a dreamer. This initiative aims to support and recognize the talent and creativity of writers in the field of art. There are two grants, each worth INR 50,000 to encourage the practice of young art writers from all over South Asia.

To know more about the grant visit the page: Inception Grant for Art Writers (https://artincept.com/grant-for-art-writers/)