Exciting Opportunity for Artists with Disabilities in Chattanooga
Chattanooga is buzzing with a wonderful opportunity for artists living with disabilities! ArtsBuild has just opened applications for its 2025 Equity Grants for Individual Artists program, aimed at encouraging and uplifting the diverse artistic community in Hamilton County. If you’re an artist who is passionate about your work and happens to have a disability—whether it be physical, mental, emotional, learning, or developmental—this could be your chance to shine.
What’s Up for Grabs?
Artists can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to support their projects, purchase much-needed equipment, or even invest in professional development opportunities. This funding can make a world of difference, allowing artists to focus on what they do best—creating art!
A Welcoming Approach
Since its inception in 2021, the grant program has been making waves by prioritizing equitable access to arts funding. So far, a notable 24 artists from Hamilton County have received more than $200,000 to support their creative endeavors. The program has previously emphasized support for Black and African American, Hispanic, Asian, Pacific Islander, Native American, and BIPOC female artists, and this latest round shows a strong commitment to inclusivity, specifically for those with disabilities.
Voices that Need to Be Heard
James McKissic, the President of ArtsBuild, expressed his enthusiasm about the new grant opportunities, stating, “We are excited to announce our latest round of Equity Grants and encourage artists of all disciplines who are living with a disability to apply.” His words ring true—this initiative aims to spotlight talented artists who may have felt overlooked, and amplifying their voices in the vibrant tapestry of Chattanooga’s arts scene is crucial.
Breaking Down Barriers
Dr. Andrea Becksvoort, who chairs ArtsBuild’s Initiatives Committee, echoed the sentiment behind the program’s creation. “This program was set up to ensure that ArtsBuild funding is more equitable and reflective of our city’s demographics,” she noted. The goal? To break down barriers and improve accessibility for artists from all walks of life.
A Call to Create
The program encourages submissions from every art discipline, which is a fantastic opportunity for photographers, poets, sculptors, storytellers, and so many more. Anyone who identifies as an artist and lives with a disability can apply for this grant, thus enriching the local arts and culture scene with diverse perspectives.
Mark Your Calendars!
If you or someone you know is interested in applying, don’t forget the application deadline is October 30. All the important details about the application process can be found on ArtsBuild’s website. This is more than just funding; it’s an invitation to bring new, innovative work to life.
A Step Toward Equality
With generous support from partnerships including the Benwood Foundation and the Lyndhurst Foundation, this initiative highlights a commitment to making the arts accessible and inclusive for everyone in the community. It’s a step toward equality and representation that is crucial for a thriving arts landscape.
Chattanooga’s artistic community is rich with talent, and its identity only becomes stronger when these diverse voices are heard and given the resources to create. So if you think you fit the bill, take that leap, apply for the grant, and let your creativity flourish!
