Paid Gigs
The Rockford Area Arts Council seeks quality arts (visual art, music, dance/movement, video production, etc.) instruction for our SPARK! summer youth and after-school programs.
Artist Grants
The Rockford Area Arts Council annually administers grants which support artists, arts organizations, and non-profits needing funding for arts projects.
Business of Art Forum
The Rockford Area Arts Council hosted the 2025 Business of Art Forum on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Think Big!
The Business of Art Forum was developed in direct response to feedback gathered during the Arts Council’s quarterly Creative Round Table discussions, which provide a platform for Rockford-area creatives to share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations. Guided by this community insight, the Arts Council designed the forum to address key professional and financial topics that impact working artists and creative entrepreneurs.
The 2025 forum featured a series of panels and presentations, including:
How to Effectively and Ethically Use AI to Support Your Creative Business with Mercedes Joyner
Planning for Retirement, 401K, and Investment Information for Creatives with Michelle Boisvert
Personal Branding and Marketing for Creatives with Lauren Davis
Publishing and Online Distribution of Creative Works with JP Rindfleisch IX
Local Resources and Mentors for Creative Entrepreneurs with Khay Horton
Missed ONe? Watch Again.
2025 Business of Art Forum Q&A
Publishing and Online Distribution of Creative Works – JP Rindfleisch IX
Planning for Retirement, 401K, and Investments for Creatives – Michelle Boisvert
Personal Branding and Marketing for Creatives – Lauren Davis
Local Resources and Mentors for Creative Entrepreneurs Khay Horton
Ethical AI for Your Creative Business – Mercedes Joyner
Round Tables
Round Tables are the Arts Council’s approach to convening the Rockford Region’s Creative Community. Please choose the RoundTable that suits your interests and sign up to receive more information.
Who: Visual artists, performing artists, musicians, literary artists, cultural institutions, creative businesses, RAAC partners, and media partners are welcome!
What: Vibrant discussion about the creative community—challenges and opportunities
When: Twice a year, once in September and again in March
Why: The Arts Council hears a consistent message from creatives about the need for collaboration and communication. Round Tables provide the space for important conversations around arts and culture, and the creative dreams we
have, as artists, for our region. The Arts Council has partnered with Midland States Bank, as a sponsor of these Round Tables, and we’re thrilled that Midland is supporting our creative community.
- Visual Artists
- Performing Artists
- Literary Artists
- Musicians
- RAAC Partners in Arts and Culture
