Oregon Arts Commission Announces Nearly $1.2 Million in Grants

The Oregon Arts Commission announces $1,190,000 in 114 grants to Oregon arts organizations awarded through the Commission's Operating Support, Arts Services, and Arts Learning programs. "The Oregon Arts Commission is pleased and delighted to support vibrant arts endeavors, from Ashland to Enterprise, that strengthen our communities, bring citizens together, and help us discover who we are," said Jean Boyer Cowling of Medford, chair of the Arts Commission. "Stemming from the CHAMP initiative led by Governor Ted Kulongoski and supported by the legislature, these grants enable us to build capacity continuing to make Oregon a state of art."

"The Commission is investing in the work of 99 dynamic arts organizations across the state," said Christine D'Arcy, executive director of the Commission. "These grants will be matched with over $100 million in earned and contributed income, supporting hundreds of jobs and fueling Oregon's creative vitality. From Eastern Oregon to the Gorge to the Oregon Coast, more communities and civic leaders appreciate that the arts strengthen community, stimulate business and contribute to innovation. We're delighted to make this level of investment with both state funds and federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts."

The Commission's Operating Support grants support the operations of Oregon's leading arts groups and recognize artistic excellence as well as the role that arts organizations take in the broader social, educational and economic areas of community life. Arts Learning grants support the arts as a powerful link to overall learning and educational achievement, contributing to Oregon's development of a 21st century workforce. Arts Services grants provide operating funds for local and regional arts councils and other groups working to make the arts accessible in all parts of Oregon.

The complete list of grant awards.