The Brandon Fellowship

Empowering the Next Generation of Artists

Established in 2015 alongside the grand opening of the Greenville Center for Creative Arts (GCCA), the Brandon Fellowship was created to provide transformative opportunities for emerging artists. Named after the historic Brandon Mill and its surrounding textile village—now home to GCCA—the fellowship reflects the center’s commitment to fostering artistic growth and professional development.

Deadline to apply for the 2025-2026 Fellowship has closed. Applications for the 2026-2027 program year will open in May 2026.

This prestigious 12-month program supports four emerging artists, ages 18–25, who are eager to advance their careers and become community leaders. Ideal candidates demonstrate exceptional talent, self-motivation, and a strong commitment to their artistic journey.

Fellows receive a supportive environment, including mentorship, professional development, and art education, along with access to exhibitions, high-caliber art classes, workshops, and on-site studio spaces to help refine their skills and establish themselves as working artists.

Applications will open in May 2026, with the deadline for applications set at the beginning of July. A review and interview process will follow for the 2026–2027 program year candidates.

Program Goals at a glance

to help young artists launch their careers
to foster a sense of community
to create arts leaders in our community

The Brandon Fellowship program is supported by the Jolley Foundation, Earle Furman in memory of Linda Furman, Doug & Melissa Sturgis, and The National Endowment for the Arts.

Fellowship Benefits

Free Studio Space:

Fellows receive a university-style studio at GCCA, where they are required to spend a minimum of 20 hours per week creating work. During public hours, fellows engage with visitors, fostering connections within the arts community.

$750 Art Stipend:

To support artistic growth, fellows receive a $750 stipend for art supplies or related expenses.

Complimentary Classes & Workshops:

Fellows gain free access to GCCA classes and workshops, expanding their skills and techniques.

$200 Travel Stipend:

A $200 Spinx stipend helps cover transportation costs.

Exhibition & Artist Talk:

Fellows showcase their work in an August–September exhibition, culminating in a public ARTalk presentation.

Networking & Collaboration:

Fellows participate in local arts events, providing opportunities for networking and creative collaboration.

Public Exposure & Promotion:

The program offers broad visibility in Greenville and beyond, including the opportunity to manage a social media takeover of GCCA’s platforms, expanding their reach as emerging artists.

Applicant Requirements

Age Requirement:

Applicants must be between 18 and 25 years old.

Education & Training:

No prior professional art training or post-secondary education is required—what matters most is your dedication to your artistic practice and professional growth.

Artistic Commitment:

Ideal candidates are passionate about advancing their careers as working artists, demonstrating strong artistic talent, self-motivation, and a clear sense of direction.

Studio & Community Engagement:

Fellows must be fully committed to their studio practice, spending approximately 20 hours per week working in their GCCA studio, engaging with visitors, and actively participating in the arts community.

Citizenship Requirement:

At the time of application, applicants must be U.S. citizens or have been lawful permanent residents for at least five years.

Interview

If chosen for an interview, candidates must attend an in-person interview at GCCA before the selection committee.

2025 Brandon Fellowship Selection Committee

Ben Tarcson, Gallery Director & Brandon Fellowship Program Manager
Danielle Fontaine, Brandon Fellowship Founder
Pat Kilburg, GCCA Founder and artist
RaAmen Stallings, Brandon Fellowship alumni & current mentor
Liz Rundorff Smith, GCCA Board Member & Assistant Gallery Director at Art & Light Gallery
Gene Krcelic, President of Premier Arts Collective