ARTS & CULTURE GOAL #1: Foster authentic artistic and cultural expression by diverse neighborhoods and communities, especially those that are historically disadvantaged.
Example grants: DisArt – Creates public art events that cultivate & communicate to people with disabilities; New City Kids – Music program with academic and arts focus; NIA Centre – Equitable access and exposure to the arts for communities of color; Grandville Avenue Art & Humanities – Youth opportunities to explore their creativity, celebrate their culture, the cultures of others and build community; Diatribe Inc. – Commission Black and Brown artists to create large scale murals that will increase social cultural awareness; Ecliptic at Rosa Parks Circle Conservancy – Activated public art space honoring Rosa Parks that serves as a venue for civic engagement activities.
ARTS & CULTURE GOAL #2: Assure affordable and welcoming access by lower-income and diverse individuals to a wide variety of artistic and cultural exhibits and performances through relevant programming and aggressive outreach.
Example grants: Creative Arts Repertoire Ensemble Inc. – Offers free ballet performances for families that are economically challenged; Grand Rapids Civic Theatre – Program for individuals with neurological and sensory conditions such as autism; Artist Creating Together, Inc. – Mobile studio that provides access to art, cultural, and educational experiences for individuals with disabilities; Grand Rapids Public Library Foundation – Library programs and services to educate and enrich community about diverse cultures; Ebony Road Players – Theatre training program for diverse local artists in under-resourced communities.