Garland, TX – The opportunity for young artists to apply for the prestigious Texas Young Masters program is nearing its deadline. The Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) and the Texas Cultural Trust are currently accepting applications for the 2026 class of Young Masters, but submissions must be completed by Monday, November 3.
This initiative is designed to support exemplary student artists in grades 8-11 across various disciplines, including visual arts, literary arts, music, theater, dance, musical theater, folk arts, and media arts. Selected students, who will earn the title of “Young Master,” will be awarded grants of $5,000 per year to further their studies in their chosen fields. Grants are available for two years, contingent upon the submission of a report and update.
The 2026 class will mark the 13th group of Young Masters, a program that has already made a significant impact by awarding over 431 grants totaling more than $1.3 million to 199 young artists since its inception. “The Young Masters grant program was created as a way to recognize and support young people pursuing the dream of becoming prominent Texan artists of the next generation,” said TCA Executive Director Gary Gibbs. “We look forward to receiving applications from candidates who are already demonstrating outstanding artistic ability, talent, and dedication to developing their knowledge in their chosen discipline.”
To be eligible for the Young Masters program, applicants must be legal U.S. residents living in Texas and must participate in a school-based program, a summer institute, or a specialized course of study. Private lessons from a qualified professional instructor also qualify. Additionally, students must maintain passing grades in all academic areas to be considered.
A panel of arts experts from across the state will evaluate the applications based on artistic excellence, commitment, and the quality of each student’s proposed plan of study. The recipients of the 2026 Young Masters grants will be honored at a celebration in Austin, Texas, in the spring of 2026.
“The Texas Cultural Trust is proud to invest in the next generation of Texas artists,” said Texas Cultural Trust Chief Executive Officer Heidi Marquez Smith. “These Young Masters are not only advancing their creative education—they are building the foundation for Texas’ cultural future. For many, this grant makes possible the kind of training and opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.”
Interested applicants can find more information, including application guidelines, at the Texas Commission on the Arts website: arts.texas.gov/initiatives/young-masters/. Don’t miss this chance to advance your artistic journey—submit your application by November 3!
