I’ve been approached by several artists asking about securing a grant to help with the expenses of an exhibition or travel to a class or seminar. I haven’t had a grant for more than 20 years so I’m using this opportunity to refresh myself. The first place I visited was ArtBiz101, a site that seems to have a lot of good practical information for setting up a business plan. Most of the financial problems artists face can be resolved by creating a good business plan. Itemizing all the expected and unexpected expenses that will be incurred while running an art business will certainly help you plan for the future, and keep you from falling into the pit of unrealized expectations.
The Alaska State Council on the Arts has a wonderful grant program for individual artists, Career Opportunity Grants provide financial assistance for travel to seminars, and programs to enrich the artists professional standing and career. The Connie Boochever Artist Fellowhip recognizes Alaskans who are emerging artists of exceptional talent. Familiarize yourself with these grants, deadline dates, and application requirements well in advance of the need and you will be ready to submit when an opportunity arises.
The Rasmuson Foundation has a number of grants for artists, included is the Art Acquisition Fund, the Arts Education Fund, and Individual Artists Awards. Again, artists should familiarize themselves with deadlines, procedures and application process. Applying for grants is very competitive, you may not receive one on your first or second try but the old adage holds true here; if at once you don’t succeed, try, try, again.
These are but a few of the opportunities available to artists. Most important is to have a good portfolio of digitized images of your best work, a professional resume, and a worthy proposal. After that it takes perseverance and diligence to secure assistance from a grant.
Gail Niebrugge, Vice Chair Alaska State Council on the Arts
