Artspace 304 Announces Winners of SI Arts Pollinator Project Grants
Date/Time
Date(s) - 01/02/2024 - 01/31/2024
12:00 am
Categories
Artspace 304 is delighted to announce the winners of the first ever SI Arts Pollinator Project grants, which are targeted to meet the needs of emerging craft artisans. Grants provide $5,000 to the artist and assistance in moving their work from studio to market. Recipients of the 2023 grants are: Stephanie Dukat, a ceramic artist and Madeline Steimle, who transfers delicate images to glass.
When asked what the grant will mean to her practice, Stephanie replied: “I am thrilled to be a recipient of the SI Arts Pollinator Project Grant. I plan to purchase a pug mill which is used in ceramic studios to assist with the time-consuming task of mixing or recycling used clay. This will be a huge time saver and benefit my overall health: less clay processing means less wear on my wrists and body. It will also reduce waste and cost by recycling all clay trimmings more efficiently. I am excited that I’ll be spending less time preparing clay and have more time to design, make, and sell work.”
Madeline commented, “This grant will allow me to further explore adding complex imagery to glass using enameling and screen printing. The supplies and equipment I purchase will allow me to scale up my art production by making both functional work and larger standalone art pieces. This will allow me to expand my efforts in selling my art, which is a goal I’ve had for a while.”
Thirty-two regional artists applied for the grants, confirming the range and depth of our region’s creative talent as well as the ongoing need for financial support. Chuck Benya, CEO & Executive Director of Artspace 304 championed these grants because, “The pandemic wreaked havoc on supply chains and pipelines everywhere. Southern Illinois artists especially felt the pain. Increasing the potential for artists to earn a livelihood will help restore the spirit and economy of our communities.”
Marsha Ryan, Board President added, “Investments in talented artists who create and sell their work in our communities have a ripple effect across our region. We’re grateful for the visionary foresight of our partners in these funding programs.” The SI Arts Pollinator Project grants are made possible by funding from Builders Vision, Illinois Arts Council Agency, and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Artspace 304 supports Southern Illinois’ diverse and vibrant cultural arts community by growing leadership, education, funding, connections, and regional economic development. For more information about Artspace 304’s programs, exhibitions, opportunities, and events, visit our website at artspace304.org.