The deadline for the 2008 Artist Enrichment Grant Application will be September 5, 2008. Applications will be available in June.
The Artist Enrichment program provides opportunities for feminist artists and arts organizations to enhance their abilities and skills to make art for positive social change. Applicants may request funds for a range of activities including: artistic development, artist residencies, the exploration of new areas or techniques, and the creation of new art.
Both grant programs are artist-centered, feminist in nature, and demonstrate high artistic quality. Applicants to both programs should be able to demonstrate their commitment to feminism and their understanding of the relationship between art and social change.
Examples of awarded Artist Enrichment grants
A Richmond novelist completes her manuscript that deals with a courageous woman who escapes her abusive husband and the oppressive government of her native country in order to raise her daughter.
A Murray artist completes a series of mixed media / video objects that will analyze stereotypes of women from many generations by combining “women's crafts” with technology.
A Berea artist develops her playwriting skills by writing a short play that addresses poverty, environmental degradation, drug abuse, and other issues that affect women and families in eastern Kentucky.
A Louisville performance artist studies folklore, drumming, and dance to create a dramatic performance that expresses women's role in society.
A Highland Heights artist researches and creates a series of drawings and paintings that explores the struggles of young, single mothers in northern Kentucky.
Who can apply?
Individual artists and organizations based in Kentucky may apply. For the purposes of this grant, an individual artist is defined as anyone who is creating strong or highly original artwork. Organizations must be non-business entities who are engaging in an artist-centered project. KFW is committed to making the grant program accessible to a wide range of women regardless of age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, physical disability, educational level, economic condition, or geographic origin.
Who reviews my application?
KFW grants are reviewed by independent review panels from a range of disciplines, including literary, visual, performing, and media arts. The KFW Grantmaking Process contains more information about how applications are reviewed.
What criteria are used in the review process?
The reviewers assess the applications based on the following criteria:
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Artwork in sample is strong and highly original.
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Explanation of applicant’s commitment to feminism is convincing.
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Applicant’s understanding of the relationship between art and social change is clearly demonstrated.
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Proposed activities will benefit the artist.
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Work plan and budget are clear, detailed, and realistic.
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Applicant’s ability to complete the proposed activities is clearly shown.
How much money can I request?
Grants range from $ 1,000 to $7,500. Please know that due to the number of strong applications received, KFW is rarely able to award full funding. The typical grant award is $3,000 to $5,000.
A Note About Archives
Duke University is the designated archive for all KFW records. After five years, the foundation forwards the files concerning funded grant proposals to the Rare Book Manuscripts and Special Collections Library at Duke University. All KFW records deposited at Duke are open to qualified researchers. By submitting this application, you waive any right to claim a privacy interest in the funded grant materials.
Checklist of items to include in your application:
Application must be postmarked by September 7, 2007.
A complete application includes:
____Original and three copies (4 total copies) of :
o application form
o description of activities
o budget
o summary of art experience
_____Work samples (one or two copies, according
to the instructions)
_____Two letters of recommendation (may be sent
separately, postmarked by September 7)
Optional:
• Self-addressed, stamped postcard if you want KFW to acknowledge receipt of application
• Self-addressed, sufficiently stamped envelope for return of work sample, if you would like your work returned to you.
When your application is complete, send it to The Kentucky Foundation for Women at the contact information provided below:
