Cuyahoga Arts & Culture still eyeing November cigarette tax renewal
Source: ideastream
Date: February 15, 2024
Abstract:
A renewal and expansion of Cuyahoga County's cigarette tax for the arts could appear on this November's ballot - but its size and scope are still being determined. During its meeting Thursday, the Cuyahoga Arts & Culture board discussed the levy campaign with Jeff Rusnak, CEO of political strategy firm R Strategy Group. Last fall, he recommended placing the cigarette tax on this fall's ballot. Without any action, it would expire in 2027.
CAC receives its funding from the 30-cent-per-pack cigarette tax, and revenues have fallen by half since the tax’s inception in 2007. Board members have sparred at previous meetings over how and when to ask voters to renew and expand the tax. Rusnak recommended that CAC's role should be educational, with community outreach on how the arts can have a positive impact on education and mental health.
Bibb Administration Launches Transformative Arts Fund, Nearly $3 Million in Grants Now Available to Local Artists
Source: Clevelandohio.gov
Date: Wednesday, Jan 31, 2024
Abstract:
Between 6 to 12 Cleveland-Centric Projects Will Receive Awards Ranging from $250,000 to $500,000
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 — Cleveland — Mayor Justin M. Bibb announced nearly $3 million is now available for local artists through the City’s Transformative Arts Fund (TAF) grant program. The program will provide funding for projects and initiatives led by Cleveland-based artists. The application portal opened today and those who are interested have until 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, March 30 to apply.
“Our local creative community provides the heartbeat that keeps our neighborhoods vibrant and alive – they inspire our children, bring difficult societal challenges to light, and empower us to take action,” said Mayor Bibb. “This transformative-level of funding we will be providing is designed to award artists who propose projects that will have a sustained, positive impact in the community long after they are completed.”
The TAF is dedicated to empower artists, creators, and communities to collaborate and create art that reflects the diversity and richness of Cleveland. Grant amounts will range from $250,000 to $500,000 – meaning that at least 6 and up to 12 projects will be awarded. The application must be completed by the lead artist(s), with a commitment from a partnering institution who will provide organizational support and administrative assistance for the project. As a Cleveland-centric program, the following criteria must be met in order to be eligible to receive an award:
· The lead artist must be 18+ years old and live in the City of Cleveland
· The partnering institution must be located in the City of Cleveland
· The proposed project must be based in the City of Cleveland
Artists across the various types of creative disciplines – painting, music, film, culinary, fashion, and others – are all encouraged to apply. Applicants can collaborate with any institutional partner – which could include community development corporations, social service agencies, nonprofits, schools, religious groups, or private businesses. Special consideration will be given to project proposals that amplify/address vacant land reutilization, the environment, food insecurity, violence prevention, safe spaces in the city, social determinants of health, and matters of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Applicants will be required to provide work samples, a detailed budget, an institutional partner letter of commitment, and other documentation when submitting the application.
“Arts is all about nurturing creativity, and innovation while providing entertainment outlets for people of all ages. As a child, I played instruments for hours after school. This sparked a creative fire in me and kept me out of trouble,” stated Councilman Kevin Conwell. The arts are a catalyst for innovation, pushing boundaries, and challenging the status quo. This is a big deal for Cleveland. It’s cool beans that we were able to get this up!”
Those who are interested in learning more about the eligibility requirements, necessary documentation, application process, and overall program can find additional information on the TAF webpage.