SUPPORTING DETROIT’S CREATIVE COMMUNITY
Philanthropy at DAM is about more than financial support—it is the collective energy that makes it possible for artists to create, for audiences to connect, and for contemporary art to remain accessible in Detroit. Every gift, whether time, resources, or advocacy, strengthens the network of people who believe in the value of art and in each other. Through this shared commitment, DAM can offer free exhibitions and programs, provide artists with opportunities to grow, and ensure that creativity thrives in ways that enrich the whole community. At its heart, philanthropy here is not just about sustaining DAM; it’s about building a resilient and inclusive cultural home where art continues to inspire, challenge, and bring people together.
KEY INITIATIVES
Alongside a year-round calendar of exhibitions showcasing the work of more than 500 local artists, DAM advances philanthropy through programs that support artistic growth, professional development, and public engagement with contemporary art:
Creative Entrepreneurship Initiative
Equipping artists with tools and skills to sustain their practice.
Featured Artist Program
Spotlighting individual emerging voices and expanding opportunities for visibility and career advancement.
Student Scholarships
Reducing barriers for student artists to study, experiment, and thrive.
Educating the Public on Contemporary Art
Offering free workshops, lectures, and events that make contemporary art accessible and relevant to all.
MAKE A GIFT TO THE DETROIT ARTISTS MARKET
At the Detroit Artists Market , we are dedicated to contemporary art and creating meaningful connections between artists, collectors, and communities. Your support enables us to provide direct assistance to artists, ensure the sustainability of our mission, and offer enriching exhibitions and programs. Join us in making a difference by contributing to one of our vital funds today.
- Mission Support Fund. Our area of greatest need, your support is critical to building DAM’s capacity, fueling DAM’s exhibitions and programs, and ensuring the sustainability of our mission for generations to come.
- DAM Student Scholarship Fund. The Detroit Artists Market’s annual scholarship program celebrates more than 50 years of collaboration with our local colleges in support of student artists and rotates annually between the College for Creative Studies, Cranbrook Academy of Art, and Wayne State University. Over 100 student scholarships have been awarded since 1966.
- Creative Pathways Membership Fund. A recent survey by the Detroit Office of Arts, Culture, and Entrepreneurship revealed that 50% of artists surveyed make less than $20,000 from their creative practice annually. Acknowledging this and other financial barriers artists may face to accessing opportunities to show and sell their work, in 2026 DAM is launching the Creative Pathways Membership Fund. Our goal is to provide a free annual Artist Membership for 50 artists each year who are facing financial hardship. Your support helps us grow our collective impact.
WAYS TO GIVE
There are many secure ways to make your gift to the Detroit Artists Market. Find more information about those processes below, and contact our Executive Director Miah J. Davis Gardner at 313-832-8540 or miah@detroitartistsmarket.org if you have any questions.
“Philanthropy is what makes it possible for DAM to remain a place where artists are supported and where the public can experience contemporary art without barriers. Every gift we receive affirms that artists matter, that their work has value, and that our community believes in creativity as a force for connection and growth. Supporting the endowment and our ongoing programs ensures that artists in Detroit not only have opportunities today but will continue to thrive for generations to come.”
– Miah J. Davis Gardner, Executive Director