Apply to be a panelist and find yourself

in the center of the action at MSAC!

Accepting applications for FY23 Creativity Grant and Presenting and Touring programs

MSAC relies on a diverse array of experts from across the state of Maryland to do the important work of evaluating applications as panelists. MSAC selects its panelists with a focus on diversity of experiences, diversity of location, and expertise in varying artistic disciplines.


Ever wonder why being a panelist is important? Find out what our panelists think in the video below.

Creativity Grant Panelists

Creativity Grant panelists not only have the opportunity to review and score applications from both independent artists and small arts organizations from throughout the state of Maryland, but can also be a part of making an impact across many communities! Applications include proposals for project-based work and general operating support for organizations.


What to Expect as a Panelist

  • Application reviews are completed on a panelist’s own time online during the middle of each month, beginning in July 2022.
  • Panelists typically review 25-35 applications per month, which requires approximately 8-10 hours to complete over a 2-week period (total varies from month to month)
  • A total of 10 panelists are needed to serve for one year (July 2022 - June 2023). 
  • Five of the 10 panelists will review applications each month; this schedule will rotate based on disciplines and needs represented in the applications (you will not review applications every month!). You should expect to review roughly every other month. 
  • A required panelist orientation will take place online on June 14, 2022 from 12pm to 2pm.
  • Panelists receive compensation of $50 for the training, along with $200 per monthly review. 


What We’re Looking For

  • Serving as a Creativity Grant panelist is a great opportunity for independent artists, arts administrators, fundraisers, arts enthusiasts, arts educators, and students.
  • We are especially looking for individuals to represent expertise in the disciplines that the Creativity Grant supports: Music, Visual Arts, Media Arts, Theater, Dance, Literary Arts, Arts in Education, Folk/Traditional Arts, Arts Services, and Multi-Disciplinary Arts. 

Presenting and Touring Panelists

Presenting and Touring Panelists have the unique opportunity to review applications for both the Maryland Touring Roster and for the Maryland Touring Grant. Evaluation of Touring Roster applications includes the review of performers that wish to join the Roster; Touring Grant reviews evaluate applications from presenters who wish to bring Touring Roster members to their venues. This is an exciting experience to ensure collaboration continues throughout this program!


What to Expect as a Panelist

  • Application reviews are completed on a panelist’s own time online during the middle of each month, beginning July 2022.
  • Panelists typically review approximately 10-20 applications per review (including both Roster and Touring Grant), which requires approximately 4-6 hours to complete over a 2-week period. 
  • A total of 10 panelists are needed to serve for one year (July 2022 - June 2023). 
  • Five of the 10 panelists will review applications each month; this schedule will rotate based on disciplines and needs represented in the applications (you will not review applications every month!). You should expect to review roughly every other month. 
  • Required panelist orientation will take place (online) on June 16, 2022 from 12pm to 2pm.
  • Panelists receive compensation of $50 for training, and $200 per monthly review. 


What We’re Looking For

  • Serving as a Presenting and Touring panelist is a great opportunity for independent performing artists (especially those with Touring experience), arts administrators (especially of presenting organizations/venues - both for- and nonprofit), and individuals with tour management experience. 
  • We are especially looking for individuals with knowledge or background in the performing arts (music, dance, theatre, storytelling) for this program. 

How do I apply to be a panelist? 

Submit your application via MSAC’s online grants management system, SmartSimple. 

(You must be registered as an Independent Artist to apply.)

  • Click the Apply Now button below to log in or create a free account in SmartSimple.
  • Under Funding Opportunities, select "Public Call."
  • Select "Panelist" from the drop down options and click "Save Draft" to populate the application.
  • Select “Creativity Grant” or “Presenting & Touring” as the Grant Program
Apply Now

Questions? Contact Program Directors Emily Sollenberger (emily.sollenberger@maryland.gov) or Laura Weiss (laura.weiss@maryland.gov) for assistance. 

 

Applications for both programs due on Sunday, May 15, 2022 at 5 p.m.

The Maryland State Arts Council is committed to making sure all Marylanders can access its programs and services. For grant application assistance, please contact the appropriate Program Director. Guests with further accessibility questions or who require accommodations may fill out the Accommodations Request Form or contact the MSAC Office Secretary at msac.commerce@maryland.gov.
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