Mayor Grebien: Pawtucket Arts Grants Available

PAWTUCKET, RI — Mayor Donald R. Grebien today announced two arts grant programs — one to fund performances and projects during the city's annual arts festival, and the second to help arts organizations with their operating expenses.

The Arts Panel Grants Program brings free programing to the public every year during the Pawtucket Arts Festival. Artists and performers are invited to apply now. Depending upon the availability of funding, grants up to $1,000 are available to support artistic performances, exhibitions, workshops and special events that are targeted to the city’s diverse community and aimed at attracting visitors to the city.

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A review panel evaluates applications based on criteria such as artistic merit, potential for cultural and community connections, and the project’s clarity and achievability. Emphasis is placed on projects made available to the public at low or zero cost. Successful applicants are reimbursed upon the completion of the project.

“Since we want to make the month of September as special and celebratory of the arts in our city as possible, we are asking for applicants to submit artistic or musical performances to help to enhance the annual festival’s presence,” said Grebien in a media release.

The city’s Arts Organization Grants Program provides eligible Pawtucket-based nonprofit arts groups with funding that can cover operating expenses such as rent, utilities, and staffing. Applicants may request up to $ 5,000.

“By filling the city’s mills with artists and creative sector companies, we create a powerful economic engine to support Pawtucket’s economy,” said Grebien. The mayor said the arts sector attracts people to Pawtucket’s galleries, studios, theaters, music venues and restaurants.

Applications for both programs can be obtained from the Department of Planning and Redevelopment on the first floor of Pawtucket City Hall at 137 Roosevelt Avenue. Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Friday, April 23. Applications are also available online.

For information about the Arts Panel Grant Program, contact Jay Rosa at (401) 728-0500, Ext. 450 or email jrosa@pawtucketri.com. For information about the Arts Organizational Grant Program contact Herb Weiss, Economic & Cultural Affairs Officer, at 401 728-0500 Ext. 437 or email hweiss@pawtucketri.com.