Artist-Curated Sample Proposal

Use this guide to help you write a strong proposal. While created specifically for NHAA’s Artist-Curated program, the same suggestions can be used to help with grant proposals or proposals from other organizations.

Artist Name
Title of Exhibition

1. Exhibition Overview & Themes

In 2–3 paragraphs, describe the concept of your exhibition. This should be rooted in your artist statement, but tailored to this specific body of work.

Include:

  • What is the central idea or theme? 

  • Why is this work important now?

  • How does your personal history, material choice, or process connect to this theme?

  • What will the viewer experience or feel when they encounter the work?

Tip: Avoid generalities. Be specific to this project rather than giving a broad biography. For example: “These paintings explore the intersection of memory and landscape, using layered encaustic wax to mimic the process of erosion,” instead of “I like to paint landscapes.”

If a group exhibition, include an artist statement for each participant and a unifying curatorial statement explaining how the works connect. If the works don’t have a clear connection, reconsider the collaboration or propose a more cohesive selection.

2. Vision for the Gallery

Describe how your exhibition will make use of the NHAA gallery space. Be specific enough that we can visualize it.

Individual gallery dimensions for East, South, and Frazier can be found on the member portal under “Artist Curated Exhibition Materials.”

Include:

  • Approximate Number of works 

  • Medium(s) used

  • Presentation method (framed, unframed, on pedestals, wall-mounted, suspended, etc.)

  • Layout approach (salon-style, minimal spacing, immersive installation, etc.)

  • Why your chosen format best serves the work

  • If your preferred gallery is the East Gallery, please include a plan for the window. A successful past example includes 4x6 family snapshots strung with fishing line intermixed with crayons that completely filled the window. The central panel displayed one of the artist's anchor pieces, an oil painting that was inspired by the artist's challenging childhood and family relationships. The reason this worked so well is that the family snapshots related directly to the paintings and showed some of the source material that the artist drew from in creating the work.

Optional but highly encouraged: Attach a floor plan sketch or mockup showing where works might be placed.

3. Timeline & Production Plan

Outline the practical timeline from now to installation.

Include:

  • Whether works are completed or in progress

  • Preferred months for the exhibition and months you are unavailable

  • Deadlines for creating new pieces

  • Any residencies, classes, or travel that will inform the work

  • Marketing plan (social media campaigns, newsletter, postcards, partnerships)

4. Educational & Community Engagement (Optional)

Proposals with a programming component often stand out. Consider how you could deepen visitor engagement.

Ideas:

  • Artist talk or Q&A session

  • Demonstration of techniques

  • Workshop for beginners or advanced students

  • Panel discussion with other artists or subject experts

  • Interactive installation inviting audience participation

If relevant, note your experience leading such activities and reference it in your CV. Don’t worry if this is the first time you're leading something like this. Part of our mission to help you grow your art career is to provide opportunities like this with NHAA guidance and support.

Final Tips for a Strong Proposal:

  • Write clearly and professionally. Proofread before submitting.

  • Focus on why this body of work matters to you and why the gallery you want is the right venue. 

  • Think like both an artist and a curator.

  • Remember that this is a competitive opportunity, and not every application will be selected.