Luminaria in San Antonio has announced an open call for its 2026 Working Artist Fund for Women professional development micro-grants program. This initiative awards grants of up to $550 to women artists residing in Bexar County to support various artistic endeavors including travel, workshops, art supplies and equipment, website development, and other expenses designed to encourage artistic growth and career advancement.

The Working Artist Fund originated in March 2020 as the Corona Arts Relief Program to help offset the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on San Antonio's arts community. The program has successfully distributed nearly $100,000 to 200 artists since its inception, with over 100 artists benefiting during its initial COVID-era rounds. In 2025, with support from the Alice Kleberg Reynolds Foundation, the program became dedicated specifically to supporting women artists.

Selected grant recipients also receive mentorship from Shelly Lares, a renowned Tejano singer/songwriter and CEO of Shellshock Records. Past recipients include Barbara Felix, whose project "A Glorious Movement — Bodies in Joy, Voices Rising" received support; Adriana M. Garcia, a children's book illustrator; performance artists Amalia Ortiz and Marisela Barrera; and painter Lauren Raye Snow.

Eligible activities must be completed by October 31, 2026. According to Executive Director Yadhira Lozano, "Luminaria supports artists year-round to help them advance their career goals. This grant cycle is focused on supporting women artists, as we see local women take on challenging projects and partnerships that move San Antonio forward."