Announcing The Rainbow Convention Jewel Experience Grant

In honor of Julian Normand

December 18, 1990-February 5, 2026

Julian Normand—Jewel—was a powerhouse.

An artist who showed up fully for his craft and for the people around him. He was a passionate stylist, educator, and friend, and his life was suddenly cut short in a car accident February 5, 2026.

The Rainbow Convention community has talked about creating a scholarship for a while—something that could give artists access to opportunities they might not otherwise have.

Jewel’s sudden passing felt like the right time to make it real, and the right name to do it under.

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What this fund does:

The TRC Jewel Experience Grant will fully fund one artist’s trip to The Rainbow Convention:

   •Flight

   •Hotel

   •TRC Premium ticket

   •Spending money

The selected recipient will be known as

“This Year’s Jewel.” Any remaining funds will be awarded to a future recipient.

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Why it matters:

There are incredibly talented artists who can’t access opportunities like this—because of cost, travel, or life circumstances.

This grant removes that barrier.

Julian was the kind of artist who would have appreciated something like this—and likely could have used it at some point in his journey, too.

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How it works:

Applications will open on our website in Summer 2026. https://Therainbowconvention.com

Applicants will complete a short-answer application, and the recipient will be selected by:

• Katie: @ktbhair

• Jordan: @pinupjordan

• Wes: @wesdoeshair

• Lauren: @thehillbillyhairpainter

We’re looking for talent, heart, and someone who will truly make the most of this experience.

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How to support:

Every donation goes directly toward funding an artist’s trip. Whether you donate or share, you’re helping create access and keep this kind of energy alive in our industry.

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Let’s send someone to TRC.

Let’s make them This Year’s Jewel.