Monday, July 27, 2009

URGENT FILMMAKER GRANT DEADLINE, THEATER GRANTS AND MORE!

Greetings all,
First, just to let you know, the Ludwig Vogelstein Foundation has temporarily suspended funding for this coming year. I'll let you know when and if things change. In the past, I have suggested that particular foundation for some of you writers and visual artists...so just in case you are planning to apply for a grant, hold off until you hear more news. On the cheerful side, below are some upcoming grants and a residency that are definitely happening this coming year. And thank you everyone for your kind words of support for my book and this website. It looks like my book will come out sometime late 2010 or early 2011. But I'll keep you posted! Best wishes, Mira

(FILMMAKERS) Open Door Completion Fund

The Center for Asian American Media Open Door Completion Fund: Offered twice a year, this round of funding is for applicants with projects in the final post-production phase. To be eligible a full-length rough cut must be submitted with the proposal. Awards range from $20,000 to $30,000. CAAM funds should be the last monies needed to finish the project and deliver the broadcast master. The review process takes approximately three months. Deadline: August 6, 2009 by 5pm Pacific Time. For more info, go to: http://www.mediafund.asianamericanmedia.org/funding/

(MEDIA ARTS) Frameline Film & Video Completion Fund
The Frameline Film & Video Completion Fund provides grants to emerging and established lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender filmmakers. The Fund seeks to provide a much-needed source of funding for LGBT artists constantly struggling to secure the funding needed to complete their works. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 are available for works that represent and celebrate our diverse stories and reflect LGBT life in all its complexity and richness. Submissions are being accepted for documentary, educational, narrative, animated or experimental projects about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people and their communities. The deadline for this year’s submissions will be in October 2009. Entries must be postmarked by this date. Awards will be announced in February 2010. Applications will be available from the website in August: http://www.frameline.org/filmmaker-support/completion-fund/

(MEDIA ARTISTS) Visual Studies Workshop Residencies
Visual Studies Workshop sponsors artists' residencies in photography, artists' books, digital video and multimedia, 16mm film and analog video. Residencies are project-based and are for a period of one month. VSW will provide access to facilities, and housing on the premises. An honorarium of $2000 is provided, (pending receipt of funding for 2010). Applications are being accepted through October 16, 2009 for residencies in 2010. To apply: Fill in and mail the application form. You will need to include a resume, project description, work samples and a SASE for return of materials. Applications should be postmarked by October 16, 2009. For more information, please go to: http://www.vsw.org/artists/artstsprogs.html.

(WRITERS) Sigurdur Nordal Institute Fellowships
The Snorri Sturluson Icelandic Fellowships are granted to writers, translators, and scholars in the humanities to enable them to stay in Iceland for at least three months, to improve their knowledge of the language, culture, and society. The amount of each fellowship covers travel expenses to and from Iceland, plus living expenses while in the country. Applicants should submit a brief but thorough account of the purpose of their stay, specifying the anticipated duration, as well as a curriculum vitae. Write to Árni Magnússonar Institute for Icelandic Studies, Sigurður Nordal Office at PO Box 1220, 122 Reykjavik, Iceland or see web site for more details. Deadline: October 31, 2009. Website: http://www.hi.is/page/a_inter_snorri_sturluson_fellowships. E-Mail: [email protected].

(PERFORMING ARTS) Sundance Theatre Laboratory
The Sundance Theatre Laboratory, a three-week workshop, offers playwrights and other theater artists the opportunity to develop new plays or explore new approaches to existing scripts. Up to eight projects are selected for the Laboratory, held at Sundance in Utah in July. The program provides professional actors, dramaturgs, rehearsal space, stage management, round-trip air transportation, accommodations, and food for the team working on each project. Applications may be submitted by individual playwrights, though playwright/directors teams are preferred. There is a $30 entry fee. Write or consult web site for guidelines and application. Write to: Sundance Theatre Laboratory, 8530 Wilshire Blvd. 3rd Floor, Beverly Hills, CA 90036. Or E-Mail: [email protected]. Website: http://www.sundance.org. Deadline: December 15, 2009.

(PERFORMING ARTS) The Theatre Communications Group/International Theatre Institute (TCG/ITI): Travel Grants: Travel Grants have been designed to foster cultural exchange and artistic partnerships between theatre professionals in the United States and their counterparts in Russia, Eastern Europe or Central Europe. These $3,500 grants will support trips in either direction by theatre artists, administrators and educators, enabling these professionals to share ideas, gain exposure to each other's cultural traditions and contemporary theatre techniques and/or work together. This grant program was developed by TCG in collaboration with the International Theatre Institute and is funded by the Trust for Mutual Understanding. Please see the website for more information: http://www.tcg.org/grants/iti/iti_index.cfm

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

FAQs: GRANTS

Well, lately I've been getting a lot of questions about grants so I've put together some of the most frequently asked questions. I'll add to the list in time but for now, here are the most common ones. Feel free to respond or ask more! Best wishes, Mira

Q: What do you think about foundations that charge an application fee?

A: Most foundations do not charge a fee so I would be rather suspect of one that does. That said, there are some reputable fellowship applications that charge a fee as well as some residencies. But before I applied to any grant (or fellowship, etc.) I would thoroughly check the foundation out. Look at their list of previous winners and projects they have funded, etc. Ask around. Don't be scammed!

Q: I need to find funding so I can frame a group of paintings for an upcoming show. How far in advance should I apply for one?

A: The rule of thumb is a year in advance, although there are some grants with shorter deadline to grant dispersal time. But plan ahead. I can't tell you how many people write me to say they have a show in a couple months and they need to find money to frame it.

Q: Are international artists/writers eligible for U.S. grants?

A: It depends on the grant. For instance, the Pollock-Krasner Grant for visual artists is open to artists from all countries but our regional grants offered by each state are not. Usually the foundation tells you somewhere on the website.

Q: I am fifty and have been a painter for over twenty-five years, however, I have never bothered to exhibit my work. Can I still get a grant?

A: With no professional track record, i.e. public shows, reviews, etc., you are unfortunately considered very, very emerging! You really need to start exhibiting if you want to be eligible for any grants or other opportunities. Sorry!

Q: I am sixty years old and although I have never published anything, I'd love to get a grant to just stay home and write all day! Can you help me?

A: Once again, you must have a track record to get a grant, although there are a couple small grants I have come across for unpublished writers. Go to my label list and look for "emerging writers" and see what's there. There are many grants for writers who have only published a little in literary journals so I would suggest that you start sending your work out now.

Q: Is it a good idea to state on an application that I am applying for other grants too?

A: Yes, it is. Foundations want to know that you are resourceful and are looking for other funding. However, tell the foundation that you will use the other grants for different things—for example, if you are trying to fund an artists' residency abroad, tell the first grant foundation that you will use the money for the plane ticket and tell the second one that you will use the money for art supplies.

Q: I just got accepted to a residency overseas. Should I apply for a Fulbright Grant to fund my stay?

A: Absolutely not! That is not what the Fulbright is for. See my article on Fulbrights ("Fulbrights: The Inside Scoop) for more information: http://miraslist.blogspot.com/2009/04/fubright-grants-inside-scoop.html

Q: What's the difference between a fellowship and a grant?

A: A fellowship is a kind of grant and is often quite substantial. It is sometimes awarded along with a residency, a research position at a university or some other kind of opportunity. A fellowship is considered rather prestigious in the humanities world. Grants can also be large, prestigious, etc. but they can also be quite small or be awarded for emergency assistance, etc.

Q: I lost my job three months ago. Are there any emergency grants out there for people like me?

A: I can't really answer your question unless I know what you do, if you have a track record (i.e. you have published or you have had several shows, etc.). However, if you go to the links on my right-hand side bar, you will find various emergency grant links to start your search. These are hard times and many foundations have drastically cut their funding. However, there are still some places out there that can help, so do not lose hope!

Q: Can I apply for a grant if I am a graduate student?

A: In most cases, no. Most grants are for emerging artists or professionals with at least five years of experience out of school. However, it really depends on the grant. I feel that if the foundation does not ask you about your student status, then don't bother to tell them. But if they say that students are not eligible, don't lie.

Q: I'm applying for a grant that gives "up to $5,000." Should I apply for the full amount?

A: It depends on your situation, however, you will have a better chance if you apply for a lower amount.

Q: I got accepted to a residency in Europe for next year but would like to find a grant to cover my travel. The place is free if I can get there.

A: This is probably my most frequently asked question of all! And the hardest one to answer, especially these days when there is less money to go around. All I can say is that keep coming to Mira's List and see what I post. Check out the links on my sidebar for travel money. Also, contact the embassy and other cultural institutions for the country you are going to. You would be surprised what you find. If you have time, read my long article, "Finding Money for Your Dreams," about the grantwriting process. I talk a little about travel funding: http://miraslist.blogspot.com/2009/04/finding-money-for-your-dreams.html. I also plan in the future to do a separate article on finding money for overseas travel.

Q: Would you find a residency grant for me which can cover travel, accommodation, food, material for my art project, as well as a nice stipend?

A: Wouldn't that be nice? But NO, I have no time to help you do that. That is why I do this blog. I spend tons of time on it so that artists can be resourceful and help themselves. You have to do the research, not me. That's not to say that, AFTER searching and searching for things on my blog (and the other links I provide on my sidebar) you still cannot find what you need, well then, yes, you can write to me and see if I have any brilliant ideas. Other than that, you are on your own! Good luck!

Q: I would like to start a non-profit arts organization. Do you post about those kinds of grants?

A: Sorry, but no. Maybe in the future but my focus is really on grants and opportunities for individual artists. I suggest doing a google search using "grants non-profit organizations" to start. Also check out www.idealist.org as well as your local arts council. Good luck!

Q: I'm a graphic designer and would love to find a grant to help pay my bills. What do you suggest?

A: Unfortunately, most grants are for gallery artists, not graphic designers who make money from the work they do. That said, there are occasionally some really interesting cross-disciplinary grants and fellowships that invite artists and designers to participate and/or collaborate in some kind of very specific cultural project. They are far and few between but they do exist.

Sunday, July 19, 2009

MEDIA ARTS RESIDENCY, GRANTS AND MORE

Dear Readers, below are a couple new deadlines...and coming soon: FAQs on those burning grant questions that you have been asking me in private emails, such as: should you trust foundations that charge an application fee? Should you mention in applications that you are applying for more than one grant, etc.? I've been getting so many questions lately from readers that I will address some of these as soon as I can, hopefull in the next couple days. In the meantime, thanks for all your good wishes about my book! Best, Mira


(MEDIA ARTISTS) Banff Centre Residency: The Locative Cinema Commission is a joint project of ZER01: The Art and Technology Network, the Banff New Media Institute at The Banff Centre, and Sundance Institute's New Frontier Initiative. The commission will be realized via a residency at the Banff New Media Institute, to be completed by July 2010. The new work will be presented at the 2010 01SJ, the 2011 Sundance Festival, and the 2011 Banff Summer Arts Festival. The work must be realizable in San Jose, Park City, and Banff. The Banff Centre is located in the Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, about 80 miles west of Calgary.

There is a 4,500 USD artist commissioning fee, up to 5,000 USD for production and residency costs, plus substantial in kind support from The Banff Centre. In addition, reasonable presentation costs, including necessary travel, will be covered. Proposal deadline: Monday August 3, 2009. For further information and the specific application process: http://zero1.org/01sj/Lccall.

(PLAYWRIGHTS) Membership Offer
New Dramatists, a service organization, offers seven-year memberships to emerging playwrights of talent and ability who live in the New York City area or who visit enough to take advantage of the programs and to participate in the community of playwrights. During this period, they are encouraged to use the organization's resources to develop and refine their artistry and vision. Primary among the services offered to members are play development workshops; playwright exchange programs with Australia, England, and Los Angeles; and ScriptShare, a national script distribution service. Additional services include musical theater workshops; writer work spaces; free-ticket program; script-copying facilities; and a summer playwriting residency in Lake Placid, New York. See web site for additional information and guidelines: www.newdramatists.org. Application Deadline: September 15.

(WRITERS) Christopher Isherwood Foundation Grants
Grants will be awarded to writers who have published at least one book of fiction, either a novel or a collection of stories. Each grant is for $4,000. Applicants must be American citizens. The novel or story collection must have been published at the time of application. Young adult novels do not qualify for grants. Applications for 2009 grants will be accepted between September 1, 2009 and October 1, 2009. Fore more information, go to: http://isherwoodfoundation.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=12&Itemid=26

(ALL DISCIPLINES) Sons of Norway Foundation Grants
The General Heritage and Culture Grants may be awarded to individuals, groups, or organizations and are intended for projects designed to promote information about traditional or modern Norway. Up to $3,000 may be awarded. For more information, call toll free (800) 945-8851 or Email: [email protected] or visit the website: www.sofn.com.

Friday, July 17, 2009

GRATITUDE

Dear Readers,
Just a quick note to say THANK YOU for all your congratulatory emails and comments about my recent book deal. I appreciate your kind words and look forward to the future when the book is out and I can bug you to go to your local bookstore and order it! I don't know the publication date yet but it certainly won't be in 2009. I'll definitely keep you posted. Anyway, I will have some things to post over the weekend but for now I just wanted to thank you and tell you how grateful I am to hear from you and to be a part of this ever-expanding cyber arts community. Keep making art, keep applying and champion each other.
Cheers,
Mira

p.s. this picture is not the real book cover, just a temporary title page.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

SOME NEWS AND MORE

Dear Readers,
Some news for you, good and bad. First, the bad: Someone just notified me that the Mayer Foundation, which helps people in need, including artists, has been so flooded with applications this year that they no longer have funding for 2009. I don't know what the situation is yet for 2010. Also, I wanted to tell you that it was brought to my attention that the Fulbright Traditional Scholar Program deadline is October 1st, not the 20th. The October 20th deadline is for graduate students and artists, writers, etc. who have been out of school less than five years.

The good news is that, although the Mayer Foundation has suspended grants for 2009, many other foundations are still funding artists. Please check my links on the right-hand side bar for other organizations that offer emergency funding or funding for creative projects. The other good news is personal. This week the Free Press (Simon & Schuster) purchased my illustrated memoir, The Memory Palace. I don't know what the publication date will be yet but I'm sure it won't come out until at least 2010. I'll keep you posted! I'll be setting up another blog and website down the road for that project in case any of you are interested.

Best Wishes,
Mira

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

IT'S FULBRIGHT GRANT TIME AGAIN!

Well, it's that time of year again—time to think about whether or not you should apply for a Fulbright Grant. The student grants are due October 20th and the Traditional Scholar Grants are due October 1st, 2009, but I think the Fulbright Senior Specialist Program Grants have various deadlines, if I'm not mistaken. If you want to find out more about the U.S. Department of State Fulbright Grant Program, go to my article, "Fulbright Grants: The Inside Scoop" (http://miraslist.blogspot.com/2009/04/fubright-grants-inside-scoop.html).

Graduate Student Program
The U.S. Department of State Fulbright and other grants for graduate study abroad are available in academic fields and the creative and performing arts. Among the requirements for SOME disciplines, but not all (for example, visual art), is proficiency in the language of the country to be visited. Grants cover the costs of international travel, tuition, living, and health insurance. See web site for more details and application instructions. Students or artists, writers, etc. less than five years out of school can find out more at: http://us.fulbrightonline.org or http://www.iie.org/srf/home.

Traditional Scholars Program
Teaching at host colleges and universities worldwide for one to two semesters. Countries occasionally request professional artists with teaching experience, rather than traditional academics. Website: http://www.iie.org/cies/us_scholars/
***just so you know, I got one of these grants twelve years after grad. school and I wasn't associated with a university at all. I applied as an Independent Scholar/Artist.

Senior Specialist Program
A relatively new program of short-term residencies at colleges and universities worldwide. For professionals and artists outside academe , the program requires recognized professional standing and substantial professional accomplishments. Website: www.iie.org/cies/specialists/

So if you want some insider tips on the Fulbright process, check out my article and/or visit the websites above. Also, you might want to read my article "Finding Money for Your Dreams" about the grant-writing process and how to get started. I had a great experience when I went to Northern Norway on a Fulbright a few years ago and receiving the grant opened many doors for me after that. As I state in my "Finding Money for Your Dreams" article, grants beget other grants, which beget many opportunities down the road.
Best Wishes, Mira

Monday, July 13, 2009

COMBAT PAPER: A DIFFERENT KIND OF RESIDENCY

COMBAT PAPER: From Uniform to Pulp/Battlefield to Workshop/Warrior to ArtistAs you know, I tend to list mostly residencies that are subsidized. However, I'd like to tell you about a very special residency (and workshop program) in Burlington, Vermont that, in my humble opinion, is definitely worth paying for. It's called Combat Paper: http://www.combatpaper.org/index.html.

From Combat Paper's website: "The story of the soldier, the Marine, the men and the women and the journeys within the military service in a time of war is the basis for this project. The goal is to utilize art as a means to help veterans reconcile their personal experiences as well as broaden the traditional narrative surrounding service, honor and the military culture. Through papermaking workshops veterans use their uniforms worn in combat to create cathartic works of art. The uniforms are cut up, beat and formed into sheets of paper. Veterans use the transformative process of papermaking to reclaim their uniform as art and begin to embrace their experiences as a soldier in war.

The Combat Paper Project is based out of Green Door Studio in Burlington, VT and has traveled throughout the United States. This project is made possible by a multifaceted collaboration between artists, art collectors, academic institutions and combat veterans. Through ongoing participation in the papermaking process, combat papermakers are attempting to progress from creating works specific to their military experiences to expressing a broader vision on militarism and society. The work reflects both the anger of the past and hope for the future. Through this collaboration between civilians and veterans, a much-needed conversation is generated regarding our responsibilities to the returned veteran and an understanding of the dehumanizing effects of warfare.

Combat Paper Residencies
From time to time, combat paper artists spend a prolonged period of time in the paper studio, working on a specific project, honing their papermaking or book art skills. Unpaid residencies are available for paper artists on an occasional basis. Artists are expected to pay for their own materials as well as their food and lodging while in residence. Residencies are self designed by the artist. Studio space and equipment are available for use. Some want to improve their skills at sheet formation for books, artwork or other personal projects. Some wish to hone their binding and bookmaking skills. Others want to explore specialty pulps and fibers used in the papermaking process. Some are accomplished artists, others are novices, willing to devote time and energy learning their craft. Contact Drew Cameron for more information and to discuss possible dates and project ideas: [email protected] or call: 802.316.1124.

Watch a video about this great project!: http://combatpaper.org/video.html and please consider donating to Combat Paper. Thanks! Mira

Sunday, July 12, 2009

EMERGENCY FUNDING, RESIDENCIES AND GRANTS

(ARTISTS & WRITERS) Emergency Relief Residency
SANTA FE ARTS INSTITUTE (SFAI) EMERGENCY FUNDS: SFAI has instituted an ongoing Emergency Relief Residency to provide residencies for artists and writers whose lives and work are compromised by domestic strife, political upheaval or natural disasters. Residencies are by application only. In response to the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina, SFAI is ready to make available its facility to artists, writers and crafts people who lost homes, studios, art work or jobs. For more info, go to: http://www.sfai.org/applications.html

(ARTISTS & WRITERS) Residency in Santa Fe
Besides their emergency residencies, the Santa Fe Art Institute (SFAI) also conducts a bi-annual competitive selection process for artist and writer residencies that focuses on the professional experience of the artist, the quality of their past work, and their potential to have a productive residency at SFAI. Residents are housed in handsomely appointed rooms with private baths and are provided with beautiful, well-lit studio spaces, allowing them to pursue creative projects without interruption. The overall physical layout of the residency space encourages daily interaction and fosters communication among residents from all over the world. The length of SFAI Residencies varies from one month (minimum) to three months (maximum). Deadline: December 31, 2009. SFAI offers generous financial aid packages in the form of need-based scholarships and scholarships so check their website for details.

(TRANSLATORS) Witter Bynner Poetry Translation Residency
The SFAI, in conjunction with the Witter Bynner Foundation, offers two poetry translator residencies per year. The residencies are open to both published and emerging poetry translators and include stipends to subsidized transportation and accommodations and a modest living stipend. This residency is for one month.
Deadline for Witter Bynner Poetry Translation Residency: December 31, 2009.

For more information on SFAI's Residency program, please contact Residency Director Michelle Laflamme-Childs at (505) 424-5050 or [email protected] or visit the website at: http://www.sfai.org/applications.html

(AUSTRALIAN ARTISTS) Emerging Artist Grants
The Ian Potter Cultural Trust seeks to encourage the diversity and excellence of emerging artists in Australia. The Trust makes grants of up to $7,000 to early career artists practising in a wide range of disciplines within the arts, including the performing and visual arts, crafts, music, the media, literature, design, community arts and other areas. The Trust was established by The Ian Potter Foundation in 1993 to enable individual artists of exceptional talent to be given support to undertake professional development overseas, including postgraduate study. The Trust is distinctive in both scale and breadth, and unmatched in Australia. http://culturaltrust.ianpotter.org.au/ Oct. 1 2009 deadline.

(CANADIAN WRITERS) Emergency Grants
The Writer's Trust Woodcock Fund/ Emergency Grants: Provides emergency funding for established Canadian writers in mid-project who are facing financial crisis. Since its inception, the Woodcock Fund has supported 103 Canadian writers in financial difficulty. For more information visit the website at: http://www.writerstrust.com or contact James Davies, Senior Program Manager, Phone: 416.504.8222 x 245. Email: [email protected]

(QUILTERS) National Quilting Association Grants
Through its annual grant program, National Quilting Association provides financial support for organizations and individuals in education, research and outreach. Projects within the following interests will be considered: Education of quilt-makers, original research into the historical documentation of quilts, quilt-makers and subjects related to quilt-making, research on the social history related to quilts, outreach to the community through the art of quilt-making. Download application from website: http://nqaquilts.org/grantprogram.php
Deadline: October, 15, 2009.

(MUSICIANS & COMPOSERS) Emergency Grants
Sweet Relief: sweetrelief.org gives emergency funding to musicians, songwriters, vocalists, composers, arrangers and instrumentalists in need. Candidacy for assistance depends, among other factors, on the availability of funds and the number of eligible applicants, along with the following criteria:
1. The applicant must be a musician who has regular public performances, or performed on at least three widely released recordings (audio or audiovisual), or written music that has been performed on three widely released recordings, or published on three occasions. The term "Musician" includes vocalists, songwriters, composers, arrangers, and instrumentalists.
2. The applicant must demonstrate financial need. Sweet Relief may request tax returns, bank statements, and/or any other information deemed necessary to verify such need.
3. Except for retired or semi-retired older musicians the applicant must have, or recently have had, a serious medical condition. A condition is considered to be serious when it substantially affects the applicant’s ability to work within or outside the music industry (i.e. a survival job). A diagnosis by a medical doctor, or hospital or medical bills indicating such condition, must be provided.
4. Our grants for older musicians provide short-term assistance for basic needs.

Any individual who does not meet these criteria but believes himself or herself to be eligible for assistance may request an application for a grant by providing a written explanation as to why the Grant Committee should make an exception to the above policies.
You may call 714-846-3030 or (toll free) 888-955-7880 or fax 626-792-2899 for more information or visit the website at: http://www.sweetrelief.org.

***Also, check out these other websites when seeking emergency funding for musicians and composers: http://www.singers.org/ and http://www.musiciansfoundation.org/

Friday, July 10, 2009

URGENT DEADLINE: FELLOWSHIP FOR YOUNG FILMMAKERS!

FILMMAKERS: This Wednesday, July 15th, is the deadline to apply for Cinereach's Reach Film Fellowship! The Reach Film Fellowship (RFF) is an annual six-month program that supports four young filmmakers making short fiction and documentary films of social relevance. The Fellowship provides a $5,000 grant, sponsorships, and industry mentorship throughout the production process. Industry judges will award an additional $5,000 to one of the films, which will also screen at Cinereach’s annual Reach Out event in the spring.

The fellowship is open to filmmakers who completed film studies programs in 2008 or 2009. This year, self-taught filmmakers may also apply, but are advised to discuss their eligibility with Cinereach staff by emailing [email protected] before submitting an application. Filmmakers in the process of transitioning from novice filmmaker to professional are ideal candidates for the Fellowship. Application and guidelines can be found online at www.reachfilmfellowship.com.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

UPCOMING DEADLINES FOR INTERNATIONAL RESIDENCIES

Greetings Gentle Readers, I must apologize for my last posting which promised you a residency in France. Oops! I left it out—but to make up for it, below I have listed two. There are actually quite a few residencies available in France, mostly for writers but their websites don't always have an English translation button to click on. Most of them do, so you just have to check out their website to see. Or learn French, which wouldn't be a bad thing, now would it? Oh, and by the way, only one week left to do my little poll on the sidebar to your right. Thanks!

(MEDIA ARTS) Residency in Portugal
Binauralmedia/Nodar Artist Residency Center: The Nodar Artist Residency Program for 2010 will focus on the Paiva River or Paviascapes #1: Structure, Process and Perception of a River for a 2-week residency module that will take place between February and October 2010. Artists will only have to pay their trip to/from Nodar. Nevertheless, the organization always tries to get some aid from the local embassies or local delegations of cultural institutes of the artists’ countries. Artists will be provided with housing, audio and video equipment, food and a social space for the artists-in-residence to network with other artists and local publics. Other trips to local spots of interest or to the performance spaces are also supported by the organization. Art disciplines: Photography; sound installation; vocal performance; sound poetry; acoustic, electro-acoustic or electronic improvisation / composition. Twelve art projects will be selected for development in residency. All nationalities are welcome to apply. For more information and application guidelines, visit the website at: http://www.binauralmedia.org/news/artist-residency/the-residency
Deadline: September, 30, 2009

(WRITERS) Residency in Côtes-d’Armor, France
Fédération des Œuvres Laïques des Côtes-d’Armor (Federation of Lay institutions of Côtes-d’Armor): The Federation provides accommodation for writers from all fields as well as for researchers. Partners can be accommodated during residency, which lasts from one to four months, with an allowance of 1200 – 1600 euros per month.
or email at: Must produce a piece of work on any chosen or given theme. For more information, write to: Patrick Cutté, Fédération des Œuvres Laïques des Côtes-d’Armor 89, boulevard Edouard Prigent - BP 528, 22005 Saint-Brieuc Cedex 01, France or call: +33 2 96 94 16 08, Fax:+33 2 96 01 51 29 or email: [email protected]. ***Sorry, no website for this one.

(WRITERS) Residency for Women Writers
Hedgebrook in Langley, Washington supports visionary women writers whose stories and ideas shape our culture now and for generations to come. Hedgebrook is open to all women writers, published or not. Writers join an intimate and diverse community of six to seven residents at a time who share dinner each evening, and often share their work and give/receive constructive feedback. All residents are selected solely on the basis of the anonymous information, essays, and writing sample supplied in their applications. Approximately forty writers are invited for residences of two to six weeks. The residency season runs from February to November. For more information about submission and to download an application form visit: http://www.hedgebrook.org/writers_in_residence.php For residency and general questions contact: Vito Zingarelli by email at [email protected] or by phone at 360/321-4786. Deadline: September, 24, 2009

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

RESIDENCIES IN QUEBEC, THE GRAND CANYON AND MORE!

(ALL DISCIPLINES) Grand Canyon Residency: Grand Canyon National Park announces a new year-round artist- in-residence program at the South Rim in conjunction with the well-established seasonal artist-in-residency program at the North Rim. Artists must submit their applications for the
South Rim postmarked by July 31, 2009. No honorarium is available at this time to off-set the expenses that the artists accrue while in residence. Currently both programs on both rims provide a furnished living space, focused studio time, and public outreach and presentation opportunities for selected artists. AiR artist proposals should be site-specific to Grand Canyon National Park, support the park’s Interpretative Themes, and will focus on such issues as ecology, the environment, park advocacy, conservation and other themes relevant to the parks. Selected participants will be notified by mid-August. For more information please contact Rene Westbrook at 928-638-7090 or [email protected]. For more information, visit the website at: http://home.nps.gov/grca/supportyourpark/air.htm.

(ARTISTS) Quebec Residency
Atelier-Circulaire Residency in Quebec: The residency includes: studio access for a full, consecutive month, an artist honorarium of $600, $100 supply credit, technical assistance and/or printer services. Interested applicants must submit a dossier including:10-15 JPG images with accompanying descriptive list, [ files must be MAC compatible, RGB and approximately 1024 x 768 dpi ]; a curriculum vitae; an artist statement; a project proposal; SASE. Address: 5445, av. de Gaspé espace 101Montréal (Québec) H2T 3B2. For more information: call 514-272-8874, email at: [email protected] or visit the website at: http://www.atelier-circulaire.qc.ca/act_residences_fr.html. Deadline: October 15th, 2009. ***Please note: the website is in French except for a short paragraph with the above information.

(ARTISTS/MEDIA ARTISTS) Exploratorium Residency in San Francisco
The Exploratorium is a museum of science, art, and human perception. Scientists, educators, exhibit developers, and artists - in residency and staff positions engage in an interdisciplinary approach to both the investigative process and the production of work, which leads to new thoughts, tools, and things. It is a museum filled with interactive science and art exhibits, a national center for teacher development, and host to an award-winning Web site of new teaching resources. Fundamentally, it is a laboratory for the research and development of cultural and scientific innovation, discovery, and play.

Given the resources and strengths of the Exploratorium, artists should be interested in interdisciplinary dialogue, open to new and engaging modes of information gathering, and curious regarding potential collaboration. Local, national, and international artists are welcome to apply. Local residents receive open access to facilities, a budget for materials and food, and a monthly stipend. Typically, local artists are in residence anywhere from one month to one year. We are more interested in subsidizing a long-term relationship than a short-term product. National and international artists receive travel and lodging coverage in addition to materials, food and stipend. Stipends range from $1000-5000. National and international artists are in residence anywhere from one week to one month. Partners and children are allowed. If accepted, the program houses artists in nearby hotels, cabins or private houses. Residents make their own meals but groceries are provided (artists can turn in receipts for up to $50 per day.) Collaborators may apply as a team. Proposals are open all year. Questions about opportunities for artists should be directed to Pamela Winfrey (415) 561-0309 ([email protected]), or Jordan Stein (415) 353-0405 ([email protected]). Work Tel: 415-563-7337, Fax: 415-561-0370, email: [email protected]. For more information, go to the website: www.exploratorium.edu/about/air.html.

(POETS) Sandburg-Auden-Stein Residency
Sandburg-Auden-Stein Residency at Olivet College in Olivet, Michigan: A three-week residency at Olivet College, including a stipend of $3,100, is given annually to a poet who has published at least one book of poetry. The resident will teach a class and host two events. Submit five poems from the most recently published book, a personal statement, a resumé, and two references by September 10 . There is no entry fee. Send an SASE, e-mail, or visit the Web site for complete guidelines. Olivet College, Sandburg-Auden-Stein Residency, Humanities Department, 320 South Main Street, Olivet, MI 49076. Kirk Hendershott-Kraetzer, Depart. Chair. E-mail address: [email protected]. For more info, go to: www.olivetcollege.edu/academics/humanities.php.

(MEDIA ARTS) Experimental Television Residency
Experimental Television Center / A.I.R. in Owego, New York: The Experimental Television Center is now accepting applications for the Artists in Residency Program, for residencies between September 2009 and January 2010. The Residency supports contemporary electronic media art projects. The studio workshop environment offers access to an image processing system, intensive individualized instruction and time for exploration and personal creative growth. Artists have an opportunity to study the processes and techniques of analog and digital imaging and to then use the system independently in the creation of new works. Participating artists have complete aesthetic and technical control over all aspects of the making process. For more info, go to: http://www.experimentaltvcenter.org/.

Sunday, July 5, 2009

NEW FELLOWSHIP AND GRANT DEADLINES

(PLAYWRIGHTS) LGBT Grants
The Arch and Bruce Brown Foundation awards yearly grants to playwrights who submit full-length plays, screenplays, musicals or operas. All works submitted must present the gay and lesbian lifestyle in a positive manner and be based on, or inspired by, a historic person, culture, event, or work of art. Writing contests close on November 30th of each year. Grants are $1,000 and are not limited to a single winner. For more information, visit the website: http://aabbfoundation.org.

(WRITERS) Wisconsin Institute Fellowship
Poets and fiction writers who have completed an MFA or a PhD in a creative writing program (other than the University of Wisconsin-Madison's MFA program) by the August 15th prior to the fellowship year are eligible to apply for a Wisconsin Institute poetry or fiction fellowship provided they have not had a book of poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction or other creative work published or accepted for publication as of the postmark date of application. Fellowship recipients must spend the academic year (approximately August 15-May 15) in Madison at the University of Wisconsin, where they will write, teach one creative writing workshop each semester, and give one public reading from their work in progress. Poetry and fiction fellowships pay $27,000 for the academic year. Fellows also receive generous health benefits. Applications are due in February, 2010. Check website for details: http://creativewriting.wisc.edu/fellowships/poetryfiction.html.

(PLAYWRIGHTS) STAGE Script Prize
STAGE (Scientists, Technologists & Artists Generating Exploration) presents the STAGE International Script Competition. The winning script will receive $10,000 USD. The prize is given at a public awards event with distinguished professionals from the worlds of theatre, film, science and/or technology, to be held in conjunction with a staged reading/performance/demonstration with a cast of professional actors. In addition, the winning playwright will have access to advice and guidance from professional theatre and film artists as well as experts in the fields of science, engineering and technology. Deadline is December 15, 2009. For more info, go to: http://stage.cnsi.ucsb.edu/guidelines/guidelines.html

(PERF. ARTISTS) Travel Grants
Association of Performing Arts Presenters / The Cultural Exchange Fund is a travel subsidy program supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to assist US based presenters in building partnerships and collaborations with international touring artists, companies, and their collaborators in seeing the work of artists from around the world in its cultural context. Arts Presenters will award travel subsidies to individual presenters, presenting organizations and to groups of presenters traveling to see work of artists, companies and/or to develop and advance projects with international artists and their collaborators. All applicants must be active members of the Association of Performing Arts Presenters.

The maximum amount awarded per individual organization, inclusive of travel costs and per diem, is $2,000. Group travel subsidies will be awarded only to groups of three or more presenters from different member presenting organizations. The maximum award for a group is $10,000, with no more than $2,000 awarded per organization. For eligibility guidelines visit: http://www.apapconference.org/cultural-exchange-fund-application-guidelines-final.html
Deadline: July, 31, 2009.

(ALL DISCPLINES) Economic Relief Grants
The Mayer Foundation: The mission of the Foundation is to make economic relief grants to needy individuals who are distressed or suffering as a result of poverty, low income or lack of financial resources, including as a result of natural or civil disasters, or from temporary impoverishment, loss of employment, death or incapacity of a family wage earner or damage to home and property; to provide health care to those who cannot afford health care or whose health insurance or financial resources are insufficient to cover medical needs; and to award scholarship benefits and student aid to high school, college or graduate school students to enable the recipients to complete an undergraduate or graduate education in the field of their choice at the college or graduate school of their choice. Grant sizes vary but generally range from $2,500 to $5,000 per grant. For more information, go to: http://www.mayerfoundation.org/.

Friday, July 3, 2009

GRANTS FOR EMERGING WRITERS AND ARTISTS AND MORE!

Greetings all...I am still very busy the next two weeks but I'll try to keep up with postings as best I can. Below are a couple ones with deadlines coming up so check them out. I hope you are all having a great summer...best wishes, Mira

(WRITERS) Emerging Voices Program

Emerging Voices is an intensive eight-month program involving writers in the early stages of their literary careers. The program offers a $1,000 stipend and includes one-on-one sessions with mentors, seminars on topics such as editing or working with agents, master classes with a renowned novelist, courses in the Writers’ Program at UCLA Extension, one-month teaching residencies, a monthly book group, and literary readings. It culminates in a public reading and reception. No age restrictions; selection is not based solely on economic need. Deadline: August 14, 2009 for the 2010 cycle. Materials must arrive in the PEN offices by the submission deadline—no exceptions. EMERGING VOICES PEN USA, c/o Antioch University, 400 Corporate Pointe, Culver City CA 90230. Phone: (310) 862-1555. Fax: (310) 862-1556. Email: [email protected]. Website: http://www.penusa.org.

***a note on this one: I'm not sure if Pen gives more than $1,000. They say on the website that it is an eight month fellowship but I don't know if that means more money. Double check about their funding. The fellowship award might just be in the form of the other opportunities they offer, such as master classes.

(ARTISTS) Santo Foundation Artists Grants
Santo Foundation is offering two $2,500 grants to individual visual artists working in any area of expression, including film, media arts and performance art. The Santo Foundation was established to recognize and assist the careers of individual artists. Its mission is to provide individual grants, travel stipends and artist-in-residence/studio exchanges in major cultural centers. Open to all undergraduate, graduate students, emerging artists and mid-career artists. International candidates are welcome to apply. For more information, go to: http://www.santofoundation.org/. Deadline: July, 31, 2009.

(ARTISTS) Artloft/Connor Meigs Art Award
The Connor Meigs Art Award is a merit award to help a young artist launch his or her career. Open to new BFA graduates. It includes a month-long solo exhibit (with no commission charged on sales), professional mentoring, invitations, mailing, artist's reception, lodging, and a $1,000 honorarium. More of an educational experience, it also includes studio visits with working artists. 2009 BFA graduates who wish to apply should send a resume, artist statement, art list and 10 images on slides or CD, with SASE to: Florence Mill Artloft, c/o Linda Meigs, 5215 Jackson, Omaha, NE 68106. For additional information call: 402/551-1233 or visit: http://connormeigsaward.blogspot.com/
Deadline: September, 1, 2009.

(PHOTOGRAPHERS) Photography Awards Fellowship
En Foco’s New Works Photography Awards Fellowship is an annual program selecting three or more U.S. photographers of Latino, African, or Asian heritage and Native Peoples of the Americas and the Pacific. Three photographers will be selected from an open and national call for entries to receive a $1,000 honorarium, photo-related supplies, technical assistance, a photographer’s page on enfoco.org, an article in Nueva Luz, an En Foco membership, and a culminating group exhibition in New York. Deadline: July 31, 2009. http://www.enfoco.org/index.php/programs/newworks_award/.

(ARTISTS) Subsidized Studio Spaces
Art Center/South Florida offers subsidized studio spaces for emerging artists. Acceptance into the Juried Artist Program hinges upon strength of work, a well conceived artist statement and the potential to benefit from a residency. Applications are reviewed bi-annually.
For more information and to download an application form visit: http://www.artcentersf.org/
Deadline: September, 1, 2009.

***By the way, I've been getting a lot of requests from readers lately to publish their studio space sublet ads. Just so you know, I don't do that as a rule. However, if a program like this one in South Florida offers FREE or partially subsidized studio space, then I am interested. Thanks!

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

STUDENT LOAN UPDATE

Greetings! I just got back from my trip and have a lot going on this week and next but I will do my best to keep up with posting. For today, I just wanted to tell all of you recent U.S. graduates out there that the Income Based Repayment (IBR) applications are now available from many major lenders, including the U.S. Department of Education. Contact your lender directly to apply for IBR. If you have Direct Loans from the U.S. government, go here: https://www.dl.ed.gov/borrower/OtherFormList.do?cmd=doViewRequirements wizardName=Repayment%20Plan%20Selection. If you aren't sure who is servicing your loans, go here to find out more info: http://www.nslds.ed.gov/nslds_SA/.

If, after you've contacted your lender and checked out the FAQs on the IBR site, you have serious problems applying for IBR, the Federal Student Aid Ombudsman's Office at the U.S.Department of Education may be able to help. You can call them to report a problem at 877-557-2575, email them at [email protected], or fill out an online help form at: www.ombudsman.ed.gov. There is also still time to take action for loan forgiveness! In addition to lowering monthly student loan payments, the IBR program forgives any remaining debt—including interest— after 25 years. Most borrowers will pay off their debt before then, but under current law, if there's anything left to forgive after 25 years, the amount forgiven would be taxed as income to the borrower. A bipartisan bill in the U.S. House of Representatives, H.R.2492, would prevent the taxation of debt forgiven through IBR. Loan forgiveness is supposed to wipe the slate clean for responsible borrowers, not create a new financial obligation. If you haven't already, please take a moment to write to your representative and urge them to support H.R. 2492 and ensure there's really a light at the end of the tunnel.

Welcome to Mira's List

This blog provides information on upcoming grants, fellowships and residencies for artists, writers, composers, and media artists. It is for serious professionals only, from emerging to mid-career to established. I also publish information for graduate students from time to time. However, I do not publish information on exhibition or publishing opportunities, nor do I advertise artist retreats and workshops that charge money. At least that is my current policy. For more info on where to exhibit or publish, please see my links section which I try to periodically update. I sift through hundreds of search engines and websites to find opportunities for YOU dear artist. In return, I ask you to pass the information along to those who need it. Also, since this is a free blog, I don't always have the time to weed carefully through everything. If you find a grant or website or residency that is not up-to-date, is dodgy in some way, or is no longer in existence, please let me know! Also, if you stay somewhere at one of the residencies I suggest and have a good experience, I want that feedback too. Please check my FAQs at the top right side bar if you have questions before starting your search. Best wishes and happy hunting!