The Maryland State Arts Council is seeking panelists who have experience and expertise in the Performing Arts for the 2020 Independent Artist Awards.The Independent Artist Awards recognize achievement by Maryland artists making work independent of an institution or organization. The awards are accompanied by unrestricted grants that encourage artistic growth and sustained practice. The 2020 Awards will award artists working primarily in the performing arts (Artistic categories rotate on a 3-year cycle. Visual/Media awards will be awarded in 2021 and Literary Arts awards will be awarded in 2022).Serving as a panelist for the awards is a great opportunity to learn about and support Maryland’s many vibrant and active artists.What does a panelist do?Panelists play a vital role in the Maryland State Arts Council’s Independent Artists Awards. Panelists will:
- Review and score each applicant’s submission based on a rubric
- Attend one regional review meeting
- Select panelists may also attend one state award review meeting during the winter of 2020
The average commitment of hours varies based on the number of applicants per region. The majority of work happens on the panelists’ own time over the course of 2-3 months.Who can be a panelist?This year’s Independent Artist Awards will be focused on Performance. We will rely on the wide array of experts and enthusiasts in the Performing Arts from across the state of Maryland to serve as panelists. Panelists are selected with a focus on diversity of experiences and location. Regardless of your connection to the arts, we encourage you to apply. Please note: if you are chosen to serve as a panelist, you are not eligible to apply as an artist to the 2020 Independent Artist Awards.How do I apply to be a panelist?Visit our website and fill out the application by October 16, 2019.Selected panelists are appointed by the Maryland State Arts Council for a one-year term, which may be renewed. Panelists will receive a modest honorarium and travel reimbursement for serving.