Thoma Foundation Art of the Spanish Americas Conservation Grant

The Carl & Marilynn Thoma Foundation is offering a new grant program aimed at the preservation and conservation of South American viceregal art. This initiative, titled the Art of the Spanish Americas Conservation Grant, supports projects that propose innovative and impactful solutions to safeguard historical artworks from this culturally rich period. Up to $50,000 will be distributed annually among selected proposals, with recipients chosen by an international jury of experts in conservation and art history. The grant is open to professionals such as conservators, curators, and others affiliated with museums or academic institutions who demonstrate the capacity to meaningfully contribute to the field. Eligible projects may include preventive conservation efforts, restoration of artworks requiring care, acquisition of laboratory equipment essential to conservation work, or the organization of workshops and symposia that foster knowledge-sharing in this field. Proposals at any stage—from preliminary research and planning to advanced implementation—are welcome, provided they are led or co-led by a qualified preservation or conservation professional. Interdisciplinary teams, including conservation scientists, curators, art historians, and institutional staff, are encouraged. The application must include a structured proposal with a title, abstract, defined period of performance, and a comprehensive work plan. The narrative should address the project’s significance to the Art of the Spanish Americas, outline the conservation methodologies to be employed, and detail the anticipated impact on research, education, or public programming. Evaluation methods and dissemination strategies must also be clearly described. The proposal must be accompanied by CVs of the principal investigator and key personnel, a detailed budget with justification, a timeline, and a reference contact. Applicants are encouraged to share their findings with the broader field upon completion of the grant period. The foundation seeks projects that advance preservation knowledge and set standards for future initiatives in the conservation of viceregal art. This opportunity is open internationally, with a strong emphasis on participation from Latin American professionals and institutions. Applications are due by December 15, 2025. Award decisions will be announced in March 2026, and selected projects will begin on April 1, 2026. The foundation encourages inquiries via [email protected] for those needing further clarification.

Strong emphasis on methodological rigor, dissemination plans, and alignment with conservation field best practices. Must clearly articulate significance to viceregal South American art and how results will impact preservation knowledge.