The Ellensburg Arts Commission invites artists and organizations to submit a request for funding for art projects FOR 2023 in the City of Ellensburg. All artistic disciplines are welcome to apply for grants between $100 and $2500.

Statement of Purpose
Projects that involve community members or organizations in the design, concept, or creation of artwork are enhanced through the support of the EAC. Through project support, artists and organizations are encouraged to apply for project funding on an annual basis. Awards are granted based on budget feasibility, experience of the candidate(s), artistic merit, and public benefit. Grants are part of the annual budget of the EAC and approved by City Council.

1. Incomplete forms will not be considered.
2. The Commission may request one representative from the sponsoring party to give a brief explanation of the project or event at the September 2022 Arts Commission meeting.
3. Grants are designed to provide financial support for arts programs and projects in Ellensburg that merit public funding. Because EAC Grants are supported with public tax dollars, the EAC places a priority on those programs that best reflect the EAC's mission and core values, and serve the residents of Ellensburg. The Commission invites artists and organizations annually to submit requests for funding. Funding may be awarded for grants between $100 and $2500. Projects supported include:
•The development of new artwork
•Arts-related events
•Interpretation of existing artwork
•Presentation of new artworks or collection of artworks
4. Funds disbursed by the City of Ellensburg must meet at least one of the following guidelines:
•The funds must be expended for a legitimate municipal purpose (an event or project which benefits the community in accordance with the Arts Commission’s statement of purpose).
•The transaction must be an equal exchange (a tangible benefit to the community for funds spent).
•Funds may be spent to commission or purchase artwork for public benefit or to sponsor performances that are open to the public.
5. The Commission requires that each sponsored project or event acknowledge the funding by including the Commission logo in publicity and event-related collateral.

 

Applicants MUST:

• Be an individual artist, group of artists or arts organization in the fields of performing or visual arts
• Be 18 years of age or older at the time of application

Although not necessary, priority will be given to applicants living within city limits.

Examples of eligible expenses
• Professional development of an artist (e.g. workshop, conference, residency)
• Rental or purchase of materials that further the applicant's project
• Promotional and marketing materials (i.e. design and printing of posters, flyers, programs, etc.)

Examples of ineligible expenses
• Tuition and cost-of-living expenses for matriculated students in any degree program
• Projects in which fundraising is a primary purpose
• Paid advertising (e.g. newspaper, radio, broadcast tv, social media, etc.)

Public Benefit Requirement
The Arts Commission receives its funds from the City of Ellensburg. Because of this, artists and organizations funded through this program must provide public benefit to the citizens of the City of Ellensburg. The following are examples of services that meet the public benefit:
• Free/discounted admissions to project event: performances, exhibitions, workshops, screenings, readings, etc.
• Free distribution of resources and publications to residents of the city of Ellensburg.

Review Process
Applications are reviewed by the Ellensburg Arts Commission for eligibility, accuracy, and comprehensiveness. The Ellensburg Arts Commission, comprised of seven Commissioners, will select and recommend the most highly qualified projects for funding based on the following criteria:

1. Commitment of the applicant to see the project through to completion: This can be demonstrated by past work, in a resume, in narrative form, or in the inclusion of a plan that details the project objectives and outcomes.
2. The public benefit of the project: This can be demonstrated by projected attendees, the visibility of the project, and/or other means.
3. Artistic significance: Discuss how will this work impact the community and its cultural relevance. 
4. Budget feasibility: This can be demonstrated by an articulated budget of the project, clearly identifying the income sources and expenses, including the amount requested of the EAC.

Award Process
Once accepted, recipients receive funds through reimbursement. To apply for reimbursement a recipient must submit an invoice, originals of receipts, and an IRS W-9 with tax ID or social security number. At the project’s end, a final report is required clearly stating how funds were spent and assessing the success of the project. Funds must be spent and invoiced by December 31, 2023, in accordance with the details outlined in the award agreement.

Application Process

There are four parts to this application. Please complete all parts via the online application and press submit. You will receive an email verification that your application was submitted.

Questions

Send an email to - ellensburgarts@ci.ellensburg.wa.us.

There are four parts to this application. Please complete all parts via the online application and press submit. You will receive an email verification that your application was submitted.

 

Questions - Send an email to - ellensburgarts@ci.ellensburg.wa.us or contact Josephine Camarillo at (509) 962-7252.