There is no such thing as failure when it comes to applying for the Guggenheim Grant. Either you win, or you learn lessons to use when you re-apply next year. It really is that simple. 

I want to illustrate this with two tangible examples:

First, you can reapply with the same materials. The jury changes every year. Perhaps your work did not resonate with this jury, but it might with the next one.

For example, in addition to the five winners I worked with, I had another client that wishes to remain anonymous.

She didn’t win the year we worked together.

She won with the same application next year.

So submit it again, it’s a new jury every year. You don’t need to work with me each time.

Second, you will have a powerful application in your hands that you can reuse for other applications and grants.

For example, I had another client, Julia Townsend, who did not receive the Guggenheim that year, but she used selections for another grant and won:

“Working with Brainard on the Guggenheim Fellowship was a big investment for an artist on a budget, but it was money well spent. I have applied for many types of grants and applications over the years, relying on feedback from various friends and family. However, getting a fresh perspective on my concepts and portfolio choices, and hearing from his 'frontline' experience was like re-charging the whole process. While waiting for the results, I used selections for a local state artist grant and won, so I already have benefitted.” - Julia H Townsend

My overall point is this:

Of course there are no guarantees, but I can get you the best possible shot at it. 

If you’re worried because you’re unsure of what the judges are looking for, don’t be. I can help you like I’ve helped my other winners in the past. I know what a winning application looks like, and I’ve helped my artists replicate it in their own way over and over again.

At the very least, should you decide to do this, you will have a powerful application that is finely edited with the right images so you also increase your chances of winning other grants.

Consider this: 

Once you’ve successfully applied to one grant, you have a “base” you can adapt for future applications. For example, the “Career Narrative” and the “Statement of Plans” can be reused for other grants. 

Nothing goes to waste.

If you still haven’t decided whether this is the right investment, check out what these clients had to say: Guggenheim testimonials

The deadline for the Guggenheim application is the second week of September. I urge you with all my heart to summon the courage and apply, with or without my help. 

Reply to this letter to ask any questions and also to find out the fee structure of hiring me to work with you. I work with you step by step for every element of this grant including image selection and looking closely at your art.

I work with a total of ten artists on this on a first come first served basis and then it is closed. Two spots have been taken already, so I have eight spots left. 

Spots are filling up to work with me, so if you are interested in learning about my fee structure please reply to this email as soon as possible. 

Sincerely,

Brainard