Delaware Division of the Arts

06/08/2026

The application deadline for the Delaware Writers Retreat is coming soon! The 2026 Writers Retreat is held from November 5-8, 2026 at the Biden Environmental Center in Cape Henlopen State Park.

This is a special opportunity to get away from everyday life and focus on creative writing in a relaxed coastal setting. Participants will have time to write, connect with peers, work alongside established authors, give and receive feedback in workshops, and get inspired!

Apply before July 1 at

Every two years, the Delaware Division of the Arts organizes and hosts a Poets and Prose Writers Retreat. The application process is competitive, and participants are chosen based on the merit of their writing submissions. Lodging, food, and workshops by writing professionals are included.

06/08/2026

Before the lights come up on a brand-new stage, look back at where the story's been heading.

This July, the Freeman Arts Pavilion opens its new season - and the grand-opening year of its new permanent stage and reimagined Grand Green in Selbyville. It's a milestone moment for one of Sussex County's signature cultural anchors.

Back in Season One of Arts Alive Delaware, our documentary series with DETV took audiences behind the curtain at Freeman to meet the people and passion driving the venue. Watching it now, as the foundation prepares to welcome audiences to a stage built for the future, hits differently.

Catch the segment and the full series at arts.delaware.gov, then go experience the new season for yourself!

06/08/2026

Our hands hurt from clapping but it was totally worth it.

On Thursday, June 4, 27 Delaware artists became the biggest Individual Artist Fellowship class in 46 years - and then promptly reminded us why, with poetry, playwriting, a rap set, and a folk duo that nobody wanted to end.

Swipe for proof that Delaware does not, in fact, lack for talent.

05/29/2026

We've been working on something big - and it's finally here.

Our newly redesigned website at Arts.Delaware.Gov is live, and it's built for you. Whether you're an artist looking for funding, an organization seeking support, or a community member who just wants to know what's happening in Delaware's creative scene.

Here's what you'll find:
🖌️Grant opportunities for individuals and organizations
🖌️Programs that support creativity statewide
🖌️ A full calendar of arts events across Delaware
🖌️ Resources to grow your creative career

Head over and take a look. We think you'll like what you see.

05/29/2026

There is something special about seeing Delaware’s artists take up space together.

Award Winners XXVI is now open at the Biggs Museum of American Art, bringing together the work of 27 Individual Artist Fellows from communities across the state. From visual art to writing, music, media, and folk arts, the exhibition offers a look at the range and depth of creative work happening right here in Delaware.

Visit the Biggs in Dover through August 16. Admission is free.
Delaware Arts Alliance
State of Delaware - Government
Matt Meyer
Lieutenant Governor Kyle Evans Gay
Delaware Department of State
National Endowment for the Arts
National Assembly of State Arts Agencies: NASAA
Mid Atlantic Arts

05/29/2026

Award Winners XXVI coming soon!

05/16/2026

The Delaware Public Art Map took a little field trip before launch!

On May 13, Program Associate Ryan Morris gave GIS professionals at the Delmarva GIS Conference a sneak peek at our new statewide public art platform. The room had great questions, smart suggestions, and a few ideas we liked so much that we’re adding them before launch.

We're thankful to our friends at Delaware Department of Technology and Information (DTI), and the First Map team, for allowing us the opportunity to present and their assistance in the creation of this new tool

A map? For public art? Across Delaware? Yes, please!

Keep an eye out in the coming weeks. Our map is almost ready to explore!

05/13/2026

We thank Congresswoman Sarah McBride for meeting with Delaware's Poetry Out Loud: National Recitation Contest state champion, Natalia Gatti from Sussex Academy while she was in Washington D.C.!

Natalia performed alongside 56 other high school students and we are beyond proud of her.

Photo (L-R): Alexis Gatti (Mom), Representative McBride, Natalia Gatti, Briana Henry (DDOA Program Officer). Competition photos by James Kegley Photography.

Delaware Arts Alliance
Delaware Department of Education (DDOE)
Delaware Department of State
National Endowment for the Arts

05/13/2026

Your work deserves to be seen.

The Delaware Artist Roster is a public directory designed to connect Delaware artists with people looking for performances, workshops, commissions, collaborations, and other creative services.

Create or update your roster profile today at delawarescene.com/artists!

05/06/2026

Four days. A coastal setting. Eighteen Delaware writers. One reason to apply.

Applications are now open for the 2026 Delaware Writers Retreat, taking place November 5-8 at the Biden Environmental Center in Cape Henlopen State Park. Writers working in fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry are invited to apply.

This year's facilitators are Hannah Grieco for prose and DaMaris B. Hill for poetry. Participants will workshop new pages, attend craft talks and author readings, and connect with peers who take their work as seriously as you take yours.

Applications close Wednesday, July 1.

Apply at https://arts.delaware.gov/programs-events/writers-retreat/