During the Fall 2020 while COVID was raging and the desire to be reflective about how arts resources reach the community, the Arts Council developed a local Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) support initiative. Since then, we have released over $261,000 to the BIPOC community in forms of fellowships and project grants. Please see below some of the outcomes from this support.
Open Call for BIPOC artists and producers:
In 2022, we launched a Pop-up series at the Armory Building for local BIPOC artists to help support programming and provide temporary space to that community. This initiative aims to provide a safe and vibrant space to be led by artists of color. The desire is for this space to be utilized as a way for all of the community to connect with each other through the arts. The space is intended for artists of all ages and levels to find support and growth -- an encouraging and community-driven space. This space features new curators and concepts on a rotational basis.
To learn more and apply please fill out this google form. This form is meant for those with long term projects, 1 to 2 months. If you need the space for a one time meeting or workshop, please email: 1) Statement of project and explanation for use of space and 2) Dates you hope to use.
For more information about this work, reach out to Iaritza Menjivar in our office imenjivar@somervillema.gov
