The Essex County Arts Council announces funding for the arts.  The Cultural Assistance Program (CAP) Grant application is now available on the website: essexcountyarts.org. For any arts group, historical society, preservation program, library, museum, or organization providing public cultural programs for Essex County residents, this is an opportunity to request financial assistance.  The application deadline is March 15, 2021.

CAP grants will support but are not limited to a wide range of activities, events, and programs. Artists fees, program expenses, one-time use of materials for workshops, partial fees for program administration, advertising rental space for the event, equipment rental, lighting, sound costumes, and professional fees are examples of CAP support.  Each program may be funded up to $1,000. The application and eligibility requirements are available on the website essexcountyarts.org.  For any questions, email admin@essexcountyarts.org.

In 2020, thirty-nine organization received funding totaling $18,000. “CAP grants continue to fund a cornucopia of diverse art forms”, stated Susan Hughes, ECAC’s new Arts Administrator. “Despite the difficulties of 2020, the Essex County Arts Council is proud to continue the tradition of supporting the arts in our area.  2021 will be a rebuilding year, as groups reconnect and re-engage with their audiences in all media. ECAC looks forward to the challenge of working with the arts organizations of Essex County to stimulate and support these efforts.” To this end, the amount of funds available to be granted to organizations has been substantially increased to $30,000.  The ECAC Board of Directors has pledged to match 50% of the funds granted by the Essex County Board of Supervisors for 2021.

For 2020, instead of in concert halls, music was enjoyed online. Classes, lectures, tours, and even theatrical performances took place virtually or with participants masked and socially distanced. Many programs were postponed from necessity, but with the hope that they will be presented in the future. The Arts Council takes enormous pride in providing invaluable funding to many organizations in our county, resulting in cultural enrichment and joy to audiences of all ages.

The Essex County Arts Council (ECAC) is a 501c3 non-profit organization serving Essex County in the beautiful Adirondack region of upstate New York.  The ECAC mission is to promote and advocate for a vibrant environment for the arts and culture, enhancing the quality of life for Essex County residents.