The objective of the Arts Grant Programis to support and grow the arts community in Costa Mesa. Funds will be granted to art projects that take place within Costa Mesa. For the purpose of this application, a project may be an event, activity, or program.

The Arts Grant Application is now closed. Please check back again in early 2027.

How to Apply

Please read the Arts Grant Guidelines (includes a downloadable/printable application).

HOW TO APPLY

The application is now closed. Check back again in early summer of 2026.

The role of the Poet Laureate is to represent and promote poetry and literacy in Costa Mesa. This position is honorary and includes an honorarium in the amount of $5,000 (two payments of $2,500), for a two-year term.

 

PLEASE CHECK BACK AGAIN IN EARLY 2027. THE APPLICATION IS CURRENTLY CLOSED.

How to Apply

Poet Laureate Program Guidelines (downloadable application included)

• Online Application

Call for Poems

There are two new park renovations in progress for the year 2026; Ketchum-Libolt Park and Shalimar Park. The city is looking for new poems to imprint into new concrete at each park. Each park has a unique theme to guide the Call for Poems process.

Eligibility and Submission Guidelines

Ketchum-Libolt Park: All writers/poets/ages are invited to submit poetry for consideration.

Themes: Community, Heroism, Duty, Safety, Service

Application Opens: April 10, 2026

Application Deadline: April 27, 2026

Apply online here: SIDEWALK POETRY PROJECT 2026 Ketchum Libolt Park Survey

 

Shalimar Park: Teens (13-18 years of age) are invited to submit poetry for consideration.

Themes: Youth, Athleticism, Love, Family, Teamwork

Application Opens: July 1, 2026

Application Deadline: August 5, 2026

The City of Costa Mesa is dedicated to incorporating art into public spaces and is especially interested in incorporating the work of local artists in such spaces whenever possible. A Utility Box Art Program was launched in early 2015, spotlight a handful of utility boxes as beautiful art pieces. Over fifty distinct, artistic designs are now spotlighted throughout Costa Mesa.

 

How to Apply

Please read through the Utility Box Art Program Handbook for more details (includes a downloadable/printable application).

Application cycle opens August 3, 2026 and closes on October 5, 2026. Utility Box designs and vinyl wraps are applied to utility boxes beginning January through the end of June.

• Online Application for Artists
• Online Application for Sponsors

Eligibility Requirements

• Artist must be a resident of Orange County
• 18+ years old   
• Artwork must be “G” rated
• Artwork submission must be a high resolution (300 dpi) file with dimensions of 20 inches high and 40 inches wide.