It’s Time to BAND Together

The Black Artists Network & Directory (B.A.N.D.) is a pilot initiative of the Chattanooga Festivals of Black Arts & Ideas, designed to empower and connect Black artists across Chattanooga and beyond.

B.A.N.D. is connecting, equipping, and elevating Black artists by providing a centralized platform for professional visibility, economic opportunity, and creative collaboration.

FOR ARTISTS

A whole community at your fingertips

B.A.N.D. offers a dedicated online space for Black artists of all disciplines to share their work, connect with one another, and be discovered by individuals and organizations looking to hire or collaborate.

Through our centralized directory, a broader community will have direct access to Chattanooga’s deep well of Black artistic talent. Our goal is to increase both visibility and income opportunities for our community’s artists.

Member Benefits

When you join BAND, your circle expands:

Increased Visibility

Your work and services listed in a public online directory viewed by individuals, organizations, and businesses across Chattanooga.

Networking Opportunites

Regular artists meet-ups, mixers, and collaborations across artistic disciplines.

Community Support

Be part of a collective that uplifts Black artists, advocates for equitable arts funding, and celebrates Black creativity.

Professional Development

Access to bi-monthly workshops covering topics like marketing, grant writing, contracts, pricing your work, and more.

Economic Opportunities

Direct access to calls for artists, paid gigs, commissions, and  business partnerships.

Networking & Learning Sessions

B.A.N.D. hosts bi-monthly networking and learning sessions covering covering a variety of essential topics to help artists grow:

Collaborative Practices
Grant & Contract Writing
Monetizing Creative Work
Marketing & Branding
Legal Basics for Artists
Entrepreneurship

UPCOMING EVENTS

There are currently no  BAND Network events scheduled at this time.

Check out what other Black Arts & Ideas Festival events we have here.

FOR ORGANIZATIONS AND OTHERS LOOKING TO

Hire a Black Artist

Need a performer, designer, writer, or speaker? Search the B.A.N.D. to connect with local Black creatives. Attend networking events and artist meet-ups to learn, build your brand, and connect with others.

The Vision We Share

Beyond a directory—we see a network, a support system, and a cultural shift that’s happening. Do you? Let’s move up together!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who can join B.A.N.D.?

A: Any Black artist, creative, or cultural worker in Chattanooga and the surrounding areas. This includes visual artists, musicians, dancers, writers, photographers, filmmakers, designers, technical support, arts educators, and more.

Q: Is there a membership fee?

A: No. B.A.N.D. membership is free during our pilot year. We believe access to opportunity should not be a barrier.

Q: How will people find me?

A: The directory will be available on our website, searchable by artistic discipline, genre, and keywords. Local businesses, schools, nonprofits, and individuals can search for Black artists to hire or collaborate with.

Q: What happens after I sign up?

A: Your profile will be added to the online directory. You’ll also receive invitations to our monthly networking and professional development events.

Q: Can I update my listing?

A: Yes! You’ll be able to submit changes to be made to your listing as your work evolves.

Q: Can organizations list themselves?

A: Not at this time. B.A.N.D. is specifically for individual Black artists and creatives. However, organizations seeking to collaborate with or hire artists are encouraged to use the directory