Emerging and professional artists can apply for $250-$1,000 in funding for community-based arts and culture initiatives in the Comox Valley.
This pilot program is accepting applications until June 10 for the summer grant intake. The initial pilot program seeks to disburse $8,000 in total funding.
Comox Valley Arts aims to support emerging and professional artists to create arts-based experiments that engage the broader public. “There are few resources and funding streams available to artists, even fewer funding opportunities for experimental work,” said Jennifer Casey, executive director of Comox Valley Arts. “Experimental artistic practice that bridges disciplines or explores subjects that address local issues and involve community participation are important for the development of a healthy arts and culture sector.
“We believe by supporting grassroots and local emerging ideas, we can incubate a more equitable arts sector from the ground up. This is one small step in that direction.”
CV?Arts website says “The funding program supports projects that root practice in community engagement, and work that examines themes relevant to the Central Island community including the current housing crisis, the climate emergency, issues of decolonization and reconciliation, to name a few. To be eligible for the grant program, projects must be geographically located in the Central Island Region. Applying individuals who identify as emerging or professional artists can apply. Projects led by IBPOC (Indigenous, Black, People of Colour) will be prioritized because we understand the disproportionate impact of systemic racism on IBPOC communities both historically and currently.”
CV/Arts encourages applications that address social and environmental issues, but also state that projects must also involve some form of arts/cultural practice and community engagement to be eligible. To learn more and to apply, visit the Comox Valley Arts website https://comoxvalleyarts.com/incubator- microgrant-program/