Curate, Purchase, Inspire (CPI) - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Curate, Purchase, Inspire (CPI)?

Curate, Purchase, Inspire (CPI) is a 12-month curatorial fellowship and art purchasing initiative led by Louisville Visual Art (LVA). Launched in 2022 and envisioned by artist Clare Hirn, CPI supports local artists, uplifts emerging and community-rooted curators, and places original artwork in nonprofit and public spaces where people gather, learn, and receive care.

What do CPI Fellows do?

CPI Fellows develop community-engaged curatorial projects in partnership with a nonprofit or public organization. Fellows work closely with LVA staff to research Louisville-area artists, develop a curatorial framework informed by community context, and select or commission artwork for long-term public display. Fellows also contribute interpretive materials, support installation, participate in mentorship, and present a public curator talk.

Do I need to have a fully developed project to apply?

No. The CPI application focuses on your interests, values, and approach to collaboration rather than a fully formed project. You do not need to propose a complete exhibition, confirm an artist, or secure a community partner at the time of application.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must:

  • Be 18 years of age or older

  • Reside in Jefferson County, Kentucky, or a county bordering Jefferson County

Applicants are not eligible if they:

  • Are currently enrolled in a college or university degree-granting program

  • Hold a paid position as a curator, gallerist, or curatorial faculty member

Do I need formal curatorial training?

No. CPI embraces an expansive understanding of curatorial practice. Applicants may be artists, designers, writers, educators, organizers, or other cultural practitioners. Lived experience, care, curiosity, and a commitment to learning are valued as much as formal training.

How many Fellows are selected each year?

Two CPI Fellows are selected annually by a committee of community arts leaders convened by LVA.

What support do Fellows receive?

Each CPI Fellow receives:

  • $10,000 in compensation for their curatorial work

  • $30,000 artwork budget to purchase, select, or commission artwork from Louisville-area artists

LVA also provides staff support, mentorship, professional development, and assistance with research, interpretation, and installation.

Who owns the artwork selected through CPI?

All artworks selected through CPI are purchased by Louisville Visual Art and held in the public trust as part of LVA’s permanent collection.

Where is the artwork displayed?

Artwork must remain on display in publicly accessible areas within the partner nonprofit or public organization. This ensures long-term public access and ethical stewardship.

Can the artwork be moved or altered?

No. Artwork may not be sold, loaned, altered, removed, or destroyed without written approval from Louisville Visual Art.

What kind of organizations do Fellows partner with?

Fellows partner with nonprofit or public organizations whose mission and community impact help shape the curatorial framework. These partnerships are developed during the fellowship in collaboration with LVA.

What materials are required to apply?

Applicants will be asked to submit:

  • A brief statement describing curatorial interests and approach to collaboration

  • A response to: What themes, questions, or issues are you curious to explore through a CPI project?

  • A brief description of background and current practice (formal, informal, lived, or self-directed)

  • A résumé or CV (optional)

  • Examples of past creative, curatorial, or cultural work

When is the application deadline?

March 16, 2026, at 4:59 PM

How do I apply?

2026 CPI Fellowship applications are now open.
Apply here:
https://forms.gle/dnUdpNdn1zcKJ1bT7