Columbia Streams Art Public Art Program

The City of Columbia’s Columbia Streams Art program offers micro-grants to support local artists in creating projects that celebrate the city’s rich history, promote public engagement with its rivers, or advance sustainability through themes such as climate change, conservation, and beautification. Grants range from $500 to $1,500 and will be awarded to 20 artists or artist teams. Applicants must reside or work in the Columbia, SC area, with a preference for artists who have previously exhibited their work in Columbia or the broader South Carolina region. The funded projects must create art suited for public spaces and accessible to the public. Applications are submitted online and must be completed by 5:00 p.m. on February 10, 2025. The selection process includes a juried review based on a scoring rubric that evaluates the alignment of the artwork with program goals, its aesthetic quality, longevity, and public accessibility. Selected artists will enter into a contract with the City of Columbia to execute their projects.