Leigh Weimers Emerging Artists Awards 2026

Annual unrestricted cash awards from the Rotary Club of San Jose honoring Mercury News columnist Leigh Weimers, for emerging artists whose work meaningfully engages or benefits residents of Santa Clara County (county residency itself not required). Visual arts including photography, plus music, literary and performance categories. Up to four winners receive grants that have ranged from $1,000 to $5,000 and present their work at the SJSU Hammer Theatre Center on October 21. Applicants should show some professional achievement but not yet wide recognition.