Parade the Circle: Featured Artist Opportunity

The Cleveland Museum of Art’s (CMA) Parade the Circle, the beloved tradition celebrating art, culture, and community, returns on Saturday, June 13, 2026. The 34th annual parade takes place in University Circle and features vibrant and imaginative costumes, towering puppets, floats, and intricately crafted masks. This year’s event coincides with the CMA’s 110th anniversary as an institution and the United States Semiquincentennial.  

This year, for the first time, the CMA is inviting artists of all disciplines and professional levels to submit their portfolio and proposal for a featured artist opportunity. Parade the Circle, like many other creative endeavors, is a process-focused and collaborative experience. Artists are encouraged to draw on their own strengths and to be open to learning and collaborating with Parade experts, volunteers, and community members.  

This year’s theme, “Momentum,” is inspired by the special exhibition American Printed Silks, 1927–1947, the lived experience of acclaimed lead artist Héctor Castellanos Lara, and the legacy and evolution of our creative community. Those interested in applying for a featured artist opportunity are highly encouraged to view the exhibition. Docent-led tours are available on select Wednesday evenings and Saturday afternoons. 

All selected featured artists can participate in the Parade Leadership Learning Workshop Series at the Community Arts Center (CAC). 

Some of the featured artists are provided with a temporary studio space at the CAC, where guests to the space have opportunities to engage with artists and view the creative process. Selected works remain on display at the CAC following the parade as determined by the CMA with permission of the artist. 

Selected artists are also invited to work as independent contractors for the CMA, beginning in April and running through the event. Compensation is provided at $1,500, paid upon completion of the ensemble and performance in the Parade. Additional compensation is provided to artists with the skill set and capacity to work with an outreach group. Proposed outreach groups must be defined in the artist application, though the CMA may assist in identifying other groups if the artist is interested in pursuing this opportunity. Supply stipends are provided to supplement creative material use and upcycling. 

All submissions and final works must adhere to the event guidelines. 

For more information, assistance in applying, or to sign up for a docent tour, please contact parade@clevelandart.org.