Artist Access Program

Since 2018, The Artist Access Program has provided free or low-cost rehearsal and production spaces to both emerging and established performance artists from the Austin area. Created to address the needs of local artists, participating organizations partner with the City of Austin’s Cultural Centers to produce professional performances for both local and visiting audiences. In addition to space, AAP partners are provided with marketing support, assistance with event planning and opportunities to collaborate.  The Artist Access Program is facilitated by the City of Austin and department of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. For more information visit https://www.austintexas.gov/acme

2027 Applications

The City of Austin will begin accepting applications for the Artist Access Program 2027 season on Monday, March 9 at 10am.  The deadline to submit an application is Monday, April 13, 2026, at 11:59pm. 

Applicants selected will work with City staff to coordinate proposed productions between October 1, 2026, and December 31, 2027.  Participating facilities include The Asian American Resource Center, Dougherty Arts Center, George Washington Carver Museum & Cultural Center, and Zilker Hillside Theater.

2027 Application: https://mcp.submittable.com/submit

Application Process and Guidelines

To Qualify: 
Applicants must live in Austin or ETJ (Extra-territorial jurisdiction), be a working artist or organization that provides programs and services for citizens of Austin and/or the ETZ and be open and marketing broadly to residents, visitors and tourists.

Application Process:
Fill out an application once you have confirmed your eligibility. Submit by April 13, 2026 at 11:59pm by clicking the submit button on the SUBMITTABLE form OR mail a paper application and support materials to ARTIST ACCESS PROGRAM, 1110 BARTON SPRINGS ROAD, AUSTIN TX 78704. All materials must arrive by the deadline.

Review and Selection Process:
Artists are ranked by the panel in a public process. Panelists may have questions for the applicants during their review. Staff will contact top scorers to negotiate and schedule dates. (Note that we may not be able to schedule all applicants due to the volume of artists applying for this program.) Once scheduling is completed to everyone's satisfaction, the applicant signs a rental contract with an AAP Addendum confirming that they will abide by the program rules and follow the laws of the land.