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The Tipton Main Street Association (TMSA) announces an open call for artists and creatives to participate in the 2026 Tipton CREATES initiative, a dynamic arts and creative placemaking program designed to engage residents with both the arts and Downtown Tipton.
TMSA is seeking proposals for engaging art displays, live performances, interactive workshops, temporary installations, and other creative activities that invite public participation and help animate downtown spaces. The initiative encourages artists to think beyond traditional formats and propose experiences that foster connection, creativity, and a deeper sense of place.
Selected projects will take place in highly visible and arts-focused downtown locations, including the Campbell Family Foundation Stage and The Alley. Programming may align with existing downtown events or stand alone as unique experiences designed to draw residents and visitors into the heart of the community.
Tipton CREATES is a key component of TMSA’s broader “Live, Work, Thrive” economic development strategy, which aims to leverage the arts as an economic development tool to increase foot traffic and support local businesses while promoting community connectedness.
“Tipton CREATES reflects our commitment to strengthening the cultural and economic vitality of Downtown Tipton and investing in its creative spaces,” TMSA President Rob Cochrane III said. “By inviting artists to actively engage our public spaces, the initiative complements the ongoing renaissance in downtown while creating experiences that bring people together and drive foot traffic to local businesses.”
Artists and creatives from across Indiana are encouraged to apply. Proposals should outline the concept, intended audience engagement, space requirements, and how the project connects to Downtown Tipton and its residents.
The full open call, including submission guidelines and proposal expectations, is available for viewing on the TMSA’s Facebook page, Facebook.com/TiptonMainStreet. Submissions must be received by 11:59 p.m. Friday, March 13. Proposals will be reviewed by a selection committee, with selected participants being notified by 9 a.m. Friday, March 27. Selected participants will receive stipends and logistical support for implementation.
Tipton CREATES, which stands for Community Revitalization & Experiences through Art, Talent, & Engaging Spaces, was launched in late 2025 and is made possible through funding from the Campbell Family Foundation, Tipton County Foundation, and TMSA’s Legacy Sponsor, STAR Financial Bank.
For more information about Tipton CREATES and the work of the Tipton Main Street Association, visit TiptonMainStreetAssociation.com or follow along on Facebook.
About Tipton Main Street
Founded in 2017, the Tipton Main Street Association is an Indiana Accredited Main Street organization dedicated to revitalizing and strengthening downtown Tipton as the heart of the community. Through collaborative partnerships, innovative projects, and a deep commitment to showcasing Tipton’s heritage, TMSA foster a vibrant and family-friendly downtown. TMSA strives to enhance quality of life, support local businesses, celebrate Tipton’s cultural identity, and ensure that the city remains a place where people live, work, and thrive – today and for generations to come.
