The City of Ontario has launched its first-ever Artist Microgrant Pilot Program in partnership with Arts Connection – The Arts Council of San Bernardino County. This landmark initiative represents the city's first direct investment in individual artists to activate public space, engage residents, and strengthen Ontario's growing creative economy.

Twelve artists have been selected to receive grants supporting artist-led public activities throughout 2026. From spring through fall, selected artists will lead diverse creative projects including mural activations, projection-mapped light installations, Indigenous beadwork circles, youth art exhibitions, cultural music experiences, participatory percussion performances, movement-based retreats, ceramics and glass workshops, photography showcases, and immersive installations across the city.

The selected artists are: Man One (Alejandro Poli Jr.), Tierra (Blanca Martinez), Ba Soul (Brenda Angel), El Ceballos, Elaine Talamaivao, Elizabeth Heredia, Elsa Ouyang, James Ojeda, Agua from MiLPA (Jose Ledezma), Malik Laing, Michael Kotzen, and Willis Garcia Salomon.

The program has two primary goals: to provide direct support to local artists and to expand access to arts and cultural experiences across the city. By investing directly in local artists, the city is creating opportunities for residents to see themselves reflected in the work, feel inspired, and build meaningful connections with their community. This strategic investment recognizes artists as small business owners, entrepreneurs, and essential contributors to neighborhood health and long-term cultural infrastructure.

Ontario is emerging as a county leader in creative economy development through this microgrant program, active engagement in statewide policy conversations, and a comprehensive approach to strengthening public art programming. Public activation dates and event announcements will be shared in the coming months through Arts Connection's website and social media channels, as well as the City of Ontario's Department of Museum, Arts & Culture social media.