The following criteria will be used by the care team and peer advisory committee to assess the creative relevance and potential impact of each application to Caring Cultures.
Each of the criteria will be scored on scale from 0 to 5 points, for a total maximum score of 25 points when all the criteria are added together.
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1. Urgency
- Recognizes the critical moment for action
Understands the current social, cultural, political, or environmental landscape and feels compelled to engage in essential and mindful actions, believing in the power of arts and culture to respond to emerging societal needs in fluid and adaptive ways. - Is prepared to act on immediate and long-term goals
Clearly articulates how complex global crises and systemic barriers have shifted their perspectives and why this fellowship presents a timely opportunity for both personal and collective change. - Is focused on impactful outcomes
Has a vision for what they can change or influence, both in the near future and in the long run, through their art, relationships, or community engagement.
2. Curiosity
- Is eager to explore new possibilities
Is open to experimenting with unconventional ideas, techniques, or perspectives, and is willing to challenge the status quo in their art practice or approach to leading or supporting social change and care. - Is curious about art as a social change tool
Actively seeks to expand their artistic, creative, or cultural practices to address social issues, using their curiosity to find innovative ways to contribute to the evolution of care and community resilience. - Is able to envision and articulate future care
Demonstrates an ability to reflect on the impacts of an increasingly tenuous or uncertain world and can envision how care systems and community support structures might evolve, bringing new insights to their work.
3. Diversity
- Is committed to cross-community solidarity
Prioritizes building relationships across different social, cultural, and geographical boundaries, and has a clear understanding of how arts and culture can strengthen diverse communities. - Has a deep awareness of diverse identities
Actively engages with intersectionality in both personal and professional contexts, recognizing how factors such as race, gender, and class influence experiences and desires of care and support. - Seeks balance across interests and needs
Understands the complexities of serving diverse communities and is thoughtful about finding equitable ways to address varying needs and priorities.
4. Reciprocity
- Is committed to mutual exchange
Values the process of giving, receiving, and co-creating knowledge, support, and care within communities, and shows a dedication to learning from others while sharing their own experiences generously. - Focuses on community benefit
Is driven to create work that uplifts not only themselves but their community, ensuring that their creative practices contribute to a larger social good. - Reflects on personal contribution and balance
Thoughtfully considers past experiences of giving and receiving within community efforts, seeking to establish a healthier balance between their personal needs and community responsibilities moving forward.
5. Commitment
- Is passionate about the evolution of care
Demonstrates a strong sense of purpose and dedication to exploring what care looks like for themselves, their community, and their artistic practice. - Has clear but flexible goals
Has defined ambitions for their fellowship but remains open to feedback and willing to adjust their approach as they learn and grow. - Is rooted in place and community
Shows a deep commitment to their local community or place, with a strong desire to make a meaningful and lasting impact through their work.