For Immediate Release

Contact: Dr. Judi Jennings, Director
The Kentucky Foundation for Women
Phone: 502-562-0045, E-mail: judi@kfw.org

KFW ANNOUNCES 2006 ART MEETS ACTIVISM STATEWIDE GRANT RECIPIENTS

The Kentucky Foundation for Women has awarded 34 Arts Meets Activism Grants totaling $100,000 to diverse women artists and arts organizations across Kentucky .

The Art Meets Activism program supports feminist artists and organizations whose work is committed to creating social change (such as altering perceptions, stimulating social dialogue, opening new opportunities for citizen participation).  The grants are for projects and activities that are artist driven and include direct outreach or community involvement.

The grant program drew a total of 72 applications. The Art Meets Activism grants to Kentucky women artists ranged from $1,000 to $7,385.     
 
KFW's Art Meets Activism grants support projects that improve communities. Current grants include projects that address issues ranging from sustainable living to creative skill building among diverse populations.
 
A sampling of 2006 AMA grants statewide includes:

Dominican Earth Center ( St. Catharine) $2,000 for a nature writing retreat in which culturally diverse women will explore sustainable living and earth literacy.

Robin D. Bowen ( Muldraugh) $6,837.00 to provide a series of workshops in Native American arts and culture for women who have never received their rite of womanhood ceremony.

Kelly Moffett ( Owensboro) $2,000 for Kentucky's Retreat for Women Writers, to be held in Owensboro, during which women will convene and create for three days.

“The projects in this round of grants mirror the concerns of women across the Commonwealth and beyond. KFW supports the commitment of these talented artists and organizations as they find ways to improve the lives of all Kentuckians. Their projects will benefit women and girls in Kentucky, and by extension their families and entire community,” said Dr. Judi Jennings, director of the Kentucky Foundation for Women.

The Foundation is currently accepting applications through September 1 for the Artist Enrichment Grant Program.  This program supports professional development for feminist artists and arts organizations committed to positive social change. Applicants should demonstrate their commitment to feminism and understanding of the relationship between art and social change. Applicants may request funds for activities including: artistic development, artist residencies, the exploration of new areas or techniques, and the creation of new art.For more information visit http://www.kfw.org/ .

The Kentucky Foundation for Women is a private foundation formed in 1985 by Louisville writer Sallie Bingham.  Its mission is to promote positive social change by supporting varied feminist expression in the arts.

A complete list of the 34 grants awarded statewide is attached.  Dr. Jennings and selected grant recipients are available for interviews/appearances. Contact KFW for further information and to schedule appearances.