SoFete’s Top Tips for Standing Out in the MSAC Artist Grant – Part 1.

SoFete
Jan 14
5 min read

At SoFete Inc., we are all about nurturing and supporting local talent. This year, we're excited to offer artists in the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) area the tools they need to succeed with the MSAC Artist Grant. Whether you're a painter, musician, poet, dancer, photographer, filmmaker, sculptor, theater artist, DJ, or involved in cultural art (such as traditional dance, textiles, visual arts, or performances), the journey to receiving a grant begins with a standout application. Want to ensure your submission shines? Here are our top tips for making an impression that lasts.

First Things First: Get Your MSAC Account—Right Now!

🔥 No Account? No Problem! Get started on the MSAC website.

🚀 Fill out what you can and save as a draft. You can always go back for the final submission.

🛑 Don’t Submit Yet! Take a breath—you're only getting started!

MSAC Artist Grant Tips

Tip 1: Artist Details ✨

1. Go to the Artist Details Section

☐ Find the question that asks: “Select each discipline in which you regularly make work as an independent artist.”

☐ Check all that apply 👀

💡 Important Reminder You probably saw the fine print:

“Please note that the evaluation of your submitted artistic materials will not involve a critical review; it will focus solely on verifying eligibility criteria.”

Now, imagine this: You’ve made it through the initial review (Yes, that’s you!). Now, what's next? Reviewers check out your website or social media to get a deeper sense of your artistry.

But here’s the kicker...If what they find is a mess or doesn’t align with what you wrote—well, not good. 😬

Takeaway: Don’t be that person. Clean up your online presence before reviewers start looking!

💡 Pro Tip

Don’t check every box to appear “well-rounded.” Instead, be honest about what you actually do.

Questions to ask yourself:

What consistent, proven body of work do you have?
If you can’t back it up, don’t select it. Simple!

Tip 2: Nail Your Artist Statement ✨

Quick Tip: Craft a statement that speaks directly to your art and passion! Now, let’s show you a BAD Example and a GOOD Example to make things clearer.

🔥 The BAD Example (Don't Do This!)

Here’s a common pitfall when writing your artist statement. Pay attention to what’s wrong here:

"I specialize in dance and cultural attire performance, celebrating the rich traditions of my heritage and fostering connections through movement. My work includes solo and group performances that invite audiences to engage with diverse cultural stories...blah blah bla"

💡 Why This Doesn’t Work

Vague and Generic: This sounds like a typical press release that doesn't bring the artist’s unique voice into focus.
Too Broad: There's no specific evidence of the artist’s individual journey or what they specifically do.
Lack of Specific Impact: The statement doesn't clearly describe how the art affects audiences, communities, or the artist’s own creative process. It feels disconnected and too generalized.

✅ The GOOD Example (Now, Here's What Works!)

Here’s what a better artist statement looks like:

"I’ve been using traditional arts to celebrate Black, Caribbean, and African heritage for over 8 years. Through cultural performances, dance, and storytelling events, I connect people to their roots. I also host intergenerational wisdom circles, where participants not only experience traditional dance and music but also try on cultural attire, learn customs, and share stories. Traveling has allowed me to expand my craft and engage with artists and communities worldwide, which continues to inspire my work and enhances my representation of culture."

💡 Why This Works

Specific & Consistent: The artist highlights ongoing and sustainable practices.
Impactful: The statement gives concrete examples of how the artist is engaging with their community.
Focus: It sticks to specific arts, practices, and real-world community engagement. It reflects not just what the artist does but why it matters.

🧠 Key Takeaways

BAD Example	GOOD Example
"I specialize in dance and cultural attire performance..."	"I’ve been using traditional arts to celebrate Black, Caribbean, and African heritage for over 8 years..."
"Fosters connections through movement..."	"I connect people to their roots through cultural performances, dance, and storytelling events..."
Generalized impact, lacking specificity and evidence of true artistry.	Specific and consistent projects that convey real-world community impact and personal artistry.
Does not show clear artistic voice.	Shows long-term commitment, growth, and clear articulation of purpose and impact.

💡 Pro Tip:

This grant is about sustaining your art and life. Be specific about how the grant will help you continue your work—whether it's living expenses, traveling, or engaging with artists and communities. Consistency and clarity are key!

Legal Disclaimer:

The example provided above is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to suggest or guarantee that following this format will result in success or approval of your application. Each artist’s application will be reviewed on its individual merits and in accordance with the specific criteria outlined by the Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) or any other funding body. Your success is determined by the quality, alignment, and authenticity of your submission, and no submission or particular approach ensures funding.

Tip 3: Optimize Your Instagram 🌟

This is YOUR TIME to shine.

Imagine you’re lucky enough to be selected. What happens next? Reviewers head to your website or social media. What if they find your work doesn’t reflect your submission? That could hurt your chances, so don’t let that happen! Set yourself up for success.

⚡ Let's Take 15 Minutes Right Now to Refresh Your Instagram

Take a look at your Instagram (or whatever platform you're focusing on right now). Does it represent you as a professional artist? If not, it’s time to freshen it up. Remember, first impressions matter.

Quick Fix Checklist for Instagram 📸

Profile Photo: Is it a photo of your art, or a solid representation of your creative style? 🖼️ If not, update it NOW!
Bio: Keep it tight (max 150 characters). Make it count

🌍 Independent Artist | Celebrating Black, Caribbean & African Heritage through Dance + Storytelling | ✈️ Traveling & Sharing Art to Uplift"

Bio: Keep it tight (max 150 characters). Make it count
Public Profile: Make sure your account is public so reviewers can easily see your work!

💡 Pro Tip: Optimize your profile and keep it true to who you are as an artist. This is how you'll make a lasting impact!

Once you’ve refreshed your profile, head back to your application and finish filling out the rest. But wait, there’s more! Submit only when you're confident in the full package you've put together. 🙌

Return to your application and complete the remaining sections. You’re welcome to hit submit, but remember—your journey doesn’t end there! The MSAC takes about 3 weeks to review your application. Use this valuable time to optimize your online presence🚀

Stay tuned for Part 2 of our article—coming your way soon! Make sure you're in the loop so you don’t miss out on the next exciting update with MSAC Artist Grant Tips. Stay connected with us!"