DAYTON, OH (July 16, 2018) – Culture Works and the Montgomery County Arts and Cultural District (MCACD) are pleased to announce that $40,000 will be available for Montgomery County artists through the 2018 Artist Opportunity Grant program.

The Artist Opportunity Grant program, which is funded by the MCACD and administered by Culture Works, provides grants to help artists take advantage of specific, imminent opportunities for professional development and the creation or completion of new work. The $40,000 available in 2018 represents a significant funding increase—up from $30,000 in each of the first two years of the program.

“MCACD understands the role artists play in the vibrancy of our community,” said Matt Dunn, MCACD Executive Director. “We want to see artists advance in their careers and continue to contribute to the community.” According to Dunn, this year’s funding increase is a result of careful planning and a decision to carry forward previous unspent funds in order to benefit as many artists as possible.

Awards given in the 2018 grant cycle will range from $500–$3,000. Artists can apply through the Culture Works website from August 1 through October 1, 2018. The project or opportunity for which an applicant seeks funding must take place between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019. Applications will be reviewed by an independent panel, and funding decisions will be announced later in the fall.

“Support for working artists is essential to creating vibrant communities,” said Lisa Hanson, Culture Works Executive Director. “The funding provided through Montgomery County Arts and Cultural District encourages artistic growth and creates opportunity for meaningful public engagement with the arts. Our community thrives when artists thrive.”

Montgomery County artists of all disciplines—including writers, painters, photographers, actors, musicians, dancers, sculptors, and film makers–are encouraged to apply. Past grantees have received funding to create public murals and exhibitions, record albums, attend international workshops and residencies, and more.

Learn more about the Artist Opportunity Grant program at cultureworks.org/artistgrants.

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ABOUT CULTURE WORKS

WHO WE ARE: Culture Works is a nonprofit regional arts agency that provides a unified voice for all of the cultural organizations and activities in the Dayton Region, and promotes the good news about the amazing cultural vibrancy of our region to a national audience.

WHAT WE DO: Culture Works is committed to leading the charge to ensure a healthy environment for arts and culture in this community for generations to come. We work to galvanize widespread support for arts and culture, while also ensuring that every citizen has an opportunity to experience the cultural vibrancy that defines our region.

WHY WE MATTER: Our efforts play a vital role in making the Dayton Region more appealing to new residents, tourists, and employees looking for a new home.