Recovery Grants Offered to Craft Artists in Asheville
Asheville, NC—Exciting news for the craft community in Asheville! The Center for Craft has opened up applications for recovery grants designed to aid local artists and organizations affected by Hurricane Helene. If you’re an artist or represent a craft organization, you could be eligible for funding of up to $10,000 through the Craft Futures Fund. These grants aim to help stabilize operations and establish new ways of working as the community rebuilds.
What’s the Deal with These Grants?
Applications are now live and will be accepted until January 13, 2025, so there’s no time to waste! This recovery grant program follows a successful fundraising effort that raised an impressive $1.2 million. The Craft Futures Fund, initially launched back in 2020 to assist artists through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, is now stepping up once more to support the artistic community in the aftermath of Helene.
Understanding the Two Phases of Support
The Fund is divided into two key phases. In Phase 1, over 850 artists, makers, and culture bearers received emergency relief funding of $500 each to help them cope after the storm. Now, Phase 2 ramps up support with two types of grants—WNC Recovery and WNC Craft Futures Cohort.
Who Can Apply?
For the WNC Recovery grants, craft organizations can apply for either $5,000 or $10,000 in funding. Special consideration will be given to nonprofits and artist-led organizations, like those community studios and collectives that act as vital hubs for creativity and collaboration. As noted by a board member, these organizations play an essential role in uniting people from all walks of life.
The WNC Craft Futures Cohort offers individual artists the chance to secure $10,000 to reengage with their practice or reinvent their artistic processes. Roughly 30 recipients will not only receive funding but will also gain access to exhibition opportunities and join a six-month peer-to-peer cohort. Plus, four members will have the chance to work in studio space right at the Center for Craft, located in the vibrant Broadway Arts District of downtown Asheville.
Why This Matters
It’s not just about the money. The importance of craft in community healing cannot be overstated. The executive director of the Center for Craft emphasized that artists hold a unique power to forge connections and uplift through their work, especially in challenging times. By funding artists, the initiative aims to empower them to lead community-driven recovery efforts.
How to Get Involved
If you represent a craft organization or are an individual artist interested in applying for these grants, you can find full details and guidelines at the Center for Craft’s official website. Remember, the deadline is January 13, 2025—mark your calendars and don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity!
In Conclusion
The Center for Craft’s efforts showcase a profound commitment to the artistic community in Asheville, providing essential resources as they navigate the path to recovery. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, these grants could be a stepping stone toward a brighter future for both your practice and the entire community.
