Photo from One Columbia for Arts and Culture
Two artists will receive $1,000 in unrestricted funding
One Columbia for Arts and Culture has launched a new Artist Support Grant program offering direct financial assistance to artists living and working throughout the Midlands.
The initiative will award two artists $1,000 each in unrestricted funding to help sustain their creative work and address expenses that may affect their ability to create.
Unlike traditional arts grants that require recipients to use funding for specific projects, exhibitions or performances, the Artist Support Grant allows recipients to use the money at their discretion. Eligible expenses may include art supplies, professional development, medical expenses, transportation, household bills and other personal or professional needs.
The grant is funded through contributions from artists seeking to support fellow creatives.
“Artists contribute so much to the cultural identity, economic vitality, and overall quality of life in our communities, but we don’t always recognize the challenges they face in sustaining their work,” said Xavier Blake, executive director of One Columbia for Arts and Culture.
The program is open to emerging and established artists working in any creative discipline, including visual and performing arts, literary arts, music, film, design and multidisciplinary practices.
Applicants must:
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Be at least 18 years old.
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Reside in one of the 12 counties comprising the Midlands region of South Carolina.
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Maintain an active artistic or creative practice in any discipline.
One Columbia has designed a short application process to make the grants accessible and reduce barriers for artists seeking assistance. Help with completing the application is also available.
“We often talk about investing in the arts, but investing in the arts also means investing in artists as people,” Blake said. “Sometimes the most meaningful investment in an artist isn’t funding their next project. It’s helping them take care of themselves so they can continue creating.”
Applications are being accepted through Nov. 16.
For application information, visit onecolumbiasc.com. For questions about eligibility or assistance with the application, email [email protected].
