Title
Artists to Work Grants Program
Description
This report provides the Economic Development and Arts Subcommittee with an overview of the Artists to Work Program.
THIS ITEM IS FOR INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION
Report
Summary
The arts inspire and bring joy to residents. They beautify public spaces, strengthen community pride and identity, and bolster the economy. The City of Phoenix has supported the arts and culture sector through organizational support with grants and bond programs and has supported individual artists through its public art program. Phoenix City Council allocated American Rescue Plan Act dollars to provide emergency relief assistance to Phoenix arts and culture organizations and individual artists. With a portion of those funds, the Office of Arts and Culture developed the “Artists to Work” grants program in 2023. This year's 2026 cohort of 10 artists are funded with a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. A total of 75 Phoenix-based artists have been funded to date including the new 2026 cohort.
The Artists to Work grants program supports the creation and presentation of original, new, or in-process artistic work by practicing Phoenix artists. Awarded artists are required to complete a public presentation within the City of Phoenix boundaries that primarily benefits Phoenix residents. This presentation provides an overview of the program, including what it is, how it started, and what projects it has funded.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Frank McCune and the Office of Arts and Culture.