City of Royal Oak, MI

The Royal Oak Emerging Artist Laureate program is designed to uplift and reward talented young artists. In partnership with the Royal Oak Civic Foundaton and the Royal Oak Commission for the Arts, the winning artist will receive $4,000 and a contract to have their work displayed publicly downtown. 

This year’s theme: community. By utilizing art as a medium for exploring local community, traditions, and social dynamics, the City can help preserve collective memory and build bridges across generational and cultural divides.

Artists of all disciplines (poetry, physical art, performance art, metal working, etc.) are encouraged to apply. Please make sure submissions are family friendly, with no toxic materials or inappropriate language. Submitted works can be made for indoor or outdoor display.

This program provides new art for the community to enjoy, exposure to the impact of art and artistic expression from our younger community members. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting to discover your creative talents, the Royal Oak Commission for the Arts invites you to be a part of this inspiring contest and let your imagination soar.

Theme Description:

The theme for the City's first Emerging Artist Laureate program is community. Entries should explore each artist's thoughts, emotions and ideas about the City of Royal Oak as a community. Whether it's the landscapes, landmarks, people, culture, or unique experiences, participants are encouraged to reflect on the elements that evoke a sense of belonging and connection to our vibrant community. Celebrate and showcase the diverse aspects of the City of Royal Oak that resonate with you personally, fostering a deeper appreciation for our shared home.

Term:

Artwork will be publicly displayed downtown in high foot-traffic area for a to-be-determined length of time.

Qualifications:

Applicants must be 16-25 years of age, and have a strong connection to the City of Royal Oak (student, resident, frequent visitor, etc...).

Funding:

$4,000 coming from Royal Oak Civic Foundation and the Royal Oak Commission for the Arts. 

Deadline:

January 8, Midnight.

The emerging Artist Laureate winner(s) will be announced and contacted about next steps.

Additional Program Details

• By entering, you agree that the City of Royal Oak may reproduce your art in any medium. You promise that the work is yours and does not violate U.S. copyright laws or spread or endorse illegal or inappropriate thoughts or behaviors.
• For physical pieces, the winning applicant(s) will be required to deliver their original art to City Hall by January 2026.
• The selected applicant(s) will receive the cash prize (Civic Foundation Grant matched by CFA funds for a total of $4,000) and recognition in the City's online posts, media, and more. Media coverage cannot be guaranteed. The selected artwork will be professionally displayed in a high foot traffic area of downtown.
• All artwork must be ORIGINAL. NO traced, trademarked, or copyrighted characters such as Disney, superheroes, cartoons, etc. No “copycat” ideas of artwork from other artists. Artwork must be truly the work of the applicant and represent the age, grade, and skill of the applicant.
• Group and partner submissions are allowed.
• Submitted works do not have to be specifically created for the Emerging Artist Laureate Program; applicants may submit a piece that they previously created, such as for a class, a contest, or for fun.
• Applications submitted by those under 18 years old must include the contact information of a legal guardian.
• Any form of art is permitted.
• Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Please upload a pre-recorded video interview:

In the area provided below, please record and upload a video of yourself providing a clear description of your artwork, its connection to the theme, and, if selected, the impact you hope it will make on the Royal Oak community. Videos should be no longer than 1 minute and 30 seconds. 

Please Note:

• Your video file must be smaller than 250 MB.
• If your file is too large to upload, please share a URL link to your video on YouTube or another video platform instead.Do not use links that require a subscription, login, or password to view.