the queer|art design grant

The Queer|Art Design Grant is a new initiative supporting projects that explore queer histories, legacies, and futures. The program will award two $10,000 USD grants to emerging queer creatives across the design industry, making it the largest cash grant for LGBTQ+ designers in the country.

In its inaugural year, The Queer|Art Design Grant will be judged by an esteemed panel of designers, curators, architects, and cultural leaders, including Bex McCharen, Salome Asega, Cristina Grajales, Jaffer Kolb, and Paul Soulellis. Across their diverse and dynamic creative practices, the jury reflects the breadth and transformative impact of queer perspectives on culture, public life, and the built environment.

The Queer|Art Design Grant is the first major program launched under the new partnership between UGG and Queer|Art. The two organizations have partnered through a shared commitment to championing creativity, individuality, and self-expression by supporting queer and trans creatives through meaningful programming, cultural experiences, educational initiatives, and artistic opportunities. As part of the year-round partnership, Queer|Art board member and award-winning creative strategist Fran Tirado (she/her) will serve as Community Curator, helping shape programming and engagement throughout the year.