Individual Artist Grant (IAG) Program

The goal of the Trust's Individual Artists Grant (IAG) program is to recognize and encourage developing and established Ely area artists with funding to take advantage of an impending, concrete opportunity or specific development activity. The project must represent a unique, concrete opportunity that will have significant impact on the artist's career. 

What Opportunities Does the Trust Fund?

The Individual Artist Grant may support a broad range of unique short-term opportunities that will have a significant impact on the artist's career. This list is intended to help applicants understand the purpose of the grant program and is NOT a complete list of eligible opportunities.

• Studying one-on-one with a mentor of significant recognition (not related to any degree program).
• Buying supplies or materials necessary to complete work scheduled for a gallery exhibition, performance, publication, etc.
• Buying capital equipment necessary to complete work for a concrete opportunity but no more than 20% of the total grant request.
• Working in collaboration with other artists.
• Paying to have work prepared for display in an upcoming exhibition.
• Renting equipment, instruments, or workspace for a unique performance opportunity. Renting studio space to complete work for a unique opportunity.
• Contracting for professional services related to a specific opportunity.
• Renting retail space to promote and sell artists' work in a community that lacks such venues.
• Paying for travel associated with a concrete creative or career development opportunity. 
• Attending a workshop that will increase the artist's technical skills.
• Self-publishing to promote the artist's work.
• Producing a compact disc, audio tape, or professional slides of the artist's work as a means to advance their career.
• Marketing the artist.

Examples of Community Impact

Successful grant applications have included some of the following components:

• Teaching art techniques or demonstrations in school classrooms
• Sharing new techniques with local artists/arts groups
• Mentoring young artists or small group art instruction
• Demonstration or lecture at the Ely Public Library or other public venue
• Arts display at the Ely Public Library
• Community performance of new work/techniques

Community Impact must occur during the grant year.

Artistic Need and Impact

• Applicant must demonstrate how this project will enhance their own development, or that of the audience it serves.
• Project expands knowledge/appreciation of the fine art.