• The Transformative Arts Fund (TAF) is a historic, artist-led initiative launched by Mayor Justin M. Bibb, Cleveland City Council, and the Transformative Arts Fund Committee to fund large-scale public art projects that spark creativity, dialogue, and social transformation across Cleveland. Backed by the American Rescue Plan, nearly $3 million was awarded to seven collaborative projects—each requiring a lead Cleveland-based artist and a Cleveland-based institutional partner.

    The program is designed to amplify the voices of local creatives, encourage equity in the arts, and bring public art into neighborhoods citywide. All applications were thoroughly vetted and scored by a seven-member artist-led committee, and For Art’s Sake was honored to be selected as one of the inaugural awardees.

    This initiative marks the first time in Cleveland’s history that such a comprehensive, artist-first funding platform has been created. We're proud to be part of this movement and remain committed to using these resources to support artists, elevate important social issues, and build a more vibrant and connected Cleveland through art.

  • For Art’s Sake is an initiative that uses art as a catalyst to transform Cleveland’s public spaces, highlight local voices, and drive social change. Through murals, festivals, activations, and education, we aim to turn the city into a canvas of creativity, conversation, and connection.

  • Our mission is to empower local artists, beautify our neighborhoods, and spark community-driven dialogue around important social issues. We believe in creating spaces and experiences that are inclusive, impactful, and reflective of Cleveland’s diverse communities.

  • Our collective includes artists, creatives, and community leaders like Glen Infante, Kumar Arora, Eric Vajda, Jordan Morales, Chelsea Pastel, and others from Cleveland’s arts and culture scene. These individuals bring years of creative, cultural, and production experience and help shape the vision, programming, and execution of our work.

    Kumar Arora, a local designer & entrepreneur is the architect behind For Art’s Sake and serves as the Lead Artist for the Transformative Arts Fund. He directly reports to Campus District, Transformative Arts Fund Commitee, and the City of Cleveland to ensure that the group executes at a high level and stays in compliance.

  • Campus District Inc. serves as our fiscal and institutional partner, helping us administer the grant and ensuring alignment with city-wide goals for arts, equity, and neighborhood revitalization. Their support allows us to responsibly scale our impact while staying grounded in community.

  • Some of our upcoming and ongoing projects include:

    • 1) FutureLAND 3D Exhibition & Afterparty

    • 2) Artists Run the Streets™ Art Show at City Hall

    • 3) Black Maternal Health Basketball Court Activation

    • 4) Artists Run the Streets CLE Marathon Mural

    • 5) Check on Your Mate Exhibition ft. Steven Kwan

    • 6) Makers & Art Market

    • 7) Hough Asphalt Art & Charity Game

    • 8) I’m from Cleveland™ Arts & Music Festival

    Each activation is connected to a core value like mental health, youth empowerment, diversity, or small business support.

  • When developing each activation within our submitted grant, we identified a mix of Wards that needed attention along with social impact causes that can align with them respectfully.

    Each cause was chosen in response to community needs, economic issues, and guidance from leaders doing on-the-ground work in Cleveland.

  • We prioritize local artists through open calls, recommendations, and deep community ties. You can apply on our Call to Artists link and keep up with us on social media as we make open calls monthly.

    We believe in fair pay, professional respect, and elevating artists at every step. Every artist commissioned is paid for their work through the Campus District, our fiscal partner.

    80% of our funding is committed towards artists, their needs, and local small businesses.

  • There are many ways to get involved:

    • Apply to future Call for Artists

    • Volunteer for events or installations

    • Become a community partner or vendor

    • Reach out directly if you have a project idea or want to collaborate via our Contact Form.

  • As a group who has been working in the arts individually (without city or grant support) for over 20 years, we hope to see For Art’s Sake continue in some capacity.

    We will be working in Q4 to build a plan into 2026 or provide a new evolution to For Art’s Sake with other institutions.

  • Yes. We welcome businesses and partners who align with our mission. Whether it’s supporting a single activation, sponsoring a mural, or backing an entire program, there are meaningful ways to be part of this journey. Reach out—we’re happy to build something together.

  • What's the best way to stay in touch or keep up with upcoming activations?

    Follow us on Instagram: @forartssakecle, or sign up for our newsletter. We share updates, open calls, and event info regularly.