Making art is always a risk and a way of communicating ideas that exists wholly on its own.
As I’m preparing work for Reverie, I’m thankful for the Professional Artists Support Grant from the Greater Columbus Arts Council (Arts Council) that has contributed to my studio practice this past year! (and previous years!) Likewise, I’m thankful for the public officials- Mayor Ginther, City Council Members and the Franklin County Commissioners that support the arts in Columbus.
This year the funds provided resources to develop new prints as well as mount, frame or put said new prints in sleeves for sales. The outside resources from the Arts Council ensured the work is created and doesn’t stay in the studio. With the funds, I applied to juried exhibitions, joined the Boston Printmakers, and pursued other invited opportunities without terrorizing my studio budget with pesky entry fees, etc. For example, this past fall, I participated in the pilot Community Arts Incubator program at Wild Goose Creative (WGC) as a Mentor. The funds from the Arts Council were put towards the new work I created for the showcase exhibition at the end of the program.
Most, if not all, of of my artist colleagues have benefitted from the support of the Greater Columbus Arts Council. If you live in Columbus and seen or experienced anything creative, chances are you have also benefited from the financial support of the Arts Council as well!