August 16, 2007

Arts funding increases 20 percent, benefits 145 different arts groups, artists

Arts Council Silicon Valley, the largest private nonprofit arts council in California, recently announced that its total grant awards increased by 20 percent over the last fiscal year. Arts Council distributed a total of $884,716 through 200 total grants from 10 different grants programs to arts organizations and artists throughout the community.

This year 53 arts and community groups with arts activities were funded through the Community Arts Fund for arts activities reflective of the many cultures in our region. Additionally, 38 organizations received grants through the Regional Arts Fund, which provides general operating support for administrative and artistic development for professional and semi-professional groups.

Nearly 25 artists received funding through the council’s Artist Fellowship program, as well as teaching artists in pre-school settings through the Arts Enrichment Grants Program and with at-risk teens and special needs populations through the Arts Council’s ArtsConnect Program.

The Arts Council’s grants programs also received a boost through the investment of two multinational corporations based in Silicon Valley that recognize the value of the arts in their local community. Applied Materials’ support of 28 arts and cultural organizations through two well established Arts Council grants programs extended its participation into its sixth year. The newly created ArtsEnhance Program, funded by Adobe Systems, awarded 14 local small and mid-size arts groups funding to conduct marketing and communications projects to increase visibility.

“Silicon Valley’s arts community reflects the creativity, innovation and diversity of its residents,” said Mike Splinter, president and CEO of Applied Materials. “Applied Materials and our employees support the important role the arts play in creating a community where people love to live and work.”

As a regional nonprofit arts agency, the Arts Council funds more arts and cultural groups through its grants programs than any other in the region. Applications are submitted for programs throughout the year and are first screened by Arts Council staff for completeness and eligibility. A grants panel of community members representative of county demographics and professional expertise review the applicants and make funding recommendations to the Arts Council Board of Trustees. Grants are distributed each year in July.

“I am very excited that our programs and committed funding partners believe in preserving arts and culture throughout Santa Clara County,” said Bruce W. Davis, executive director of Arts Council Silicon Valley. “I hope we can continue this upwards funding trend amid these always-challenging economic times.”