Key Takeaways:
- The United States Artists organization has awarded 50 artists with $50,000 each as part of its 2026 USA Fellowships.
- The fellowship recipients include three Chicago-based artists: Ben LaMar Gay, Sharon Udoh, and Edra Soto.
- The funds can be used by the artists in any way to support their work, including covering living expenses, accessing healthcare, or investing in their communities.
- The organization aims to create pathways of support for artists across the nation and has given over $53 million in direct support to over 1,000 individuals since its founding.
- The fellowship selection process is rigorous and year-long, with cultural professionals nominating artists and a panel selecting the awardees based on their work and contributions to the cultural and societal moment.
Introduction to United States Artists
The United States Artists organization has announced its 2026 USA Fellowships, awarding $50,000 to 50 artists in 10 disciplines, including three artists local to Chicago: Ben LaMar Gay, Sharon Udoh, and Edra Soto. The organization, founded 20 years ago, aims to create pathways of support for artists across the nation and has given over $53 million in direct support to over 1,000 individuals. The fellowship recipients can use the funds in any way to support their work, whether it’s expanding their practice, covering living expenses, accessing healthcare, or investing in their communities.
The Importance of Supporting Artists
According to a 2003 Urban Institute study, 96% of Americans value art in their lives, but only 27% value artists. This disparity highlights the need for organizations like United States