Arts + Creative Industries Update - In the time of COVID-19 | View in browser
Your contribution makes a critical difference! Support independent artists, creative workers and businesses whose art inspires and moves you. Please make your gift to Creative Washtenaw Aid and show your care for our arts + creative community! ♥️
Your contribution makes a critical difference! Support independent artists, creative workers and businesses whose art inspires and moves you. Please make your gift to Creative Washtenaw Aid and show your care for our arts + creative community! ♥️
House Expected to pass $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan today.
Pending a vote from the House of Representatives, the target date for enactment is before March 14, 2021.
Key Takeaways:
- $1.25 billion additional funds for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program.
- SVO applicants can apply for both PPP and SVOG for a net award.
- $135 million for the NEA, $135 million for the NEH, $200 million for IMLS, and $175 million added for CPB.
Plus...
- PUA was extended from 8/29/21 to 9/6/21, but weekly benefit was reduced from $400 to $300 per week.
- Stimulus checks will be $1,400 per taxpayer and $1,400 per child or adult dependent. Taxpayers with more than $80,000 of your last filed adjusted gross income for singles, $120,000 for heads of household and $160,000 for married couples are not eligible.
- $20 billion for additional vaccinations and $50 billion for testing.
- $15 billion for additional EIDL funds, with loans prioritized for hardest hit businesses with fewer than 10 employees.
- $25 billion for a new grant program for restaurants and bars to meet payroll and other expenses.
- $1.25 billion for evidence-based summer enrichment, $1.25 billion for after school programs, and $3 billion for education technology.
- $130 billion for most K-12 schools to safely reopen within 100 days.
- $20 billion for additional rent and utility assistance.
Read the latest MDHHS order here . Scroll down to find more details in the Reopening News & Resources section.
$1,500 Michigan K-12 Schools
Right now there is no competition!
Applications Close Apr. 16, 2021
Michigan K-12 schools are eligible for grants of up to $1,500 to pay for arts equipment (including repairs of arts equipment) or supplies being used within the classroom/school setting. Michigan K-12 teachers in any arts discipline may apply for the grant including creative writing, dance, film/video, music, visual arts and theater. Grants are awarded on a reimbursement basis.
Applicants must be an accredited Michigan preK-12 educational institution, public or non-public school, private school, home school, school district, intermediate school district/regional educational service agency or an accredited Head Start program.
Applicants may receive only one Art Equipment & Supplies grant per school building, per school year. In addition, the same school may not receive this grant in two consecutive years, so they should not apply.
Grants will only be awarded to one applicant per educational institution.
A certified teacher must be the primary contact.
Furniture or equipment that becomes part of the school building is not eligible. Visit our website to learn more or view the FY21 Arts Equipment & Supplies Grant Guidelines.
The Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs (MCACA) is now accepting Grant Applications for FY22, with most deadlines falling on June 1, 2021. Interested applicants can find information about each of their programs in further detail, including grant guidelines, on the MCACA website here.
Applicants from across the state of Michigan can apply (based on eligibility) to one of the six programs MCACA offers:
Applications due June 1, 2021
- Operational Support
- Project Support
- Arts in Education
- Capital Improvement
- New Leaders
Applications due Aug 1, 2021
- Minigrant Projects & POD - Region 9 Creative Washtenaw
New to this process? MCACA staff will be hosting virtual "office hours" beginning March 22. Monitor the MCACA Facebook page here to stay informed.
Michigan Cultural Advocacy Network - Virtual Advocacy Day
March 11 & 12, 2021
Registration is closed but if you have important issues to bring forward, email deb.polich@creativewashtenaw.org.
CWHH #15 - Mar 31 at 4:30 p.m.
Our monthly gathering to unwind, laugh and share in collective creativity
Wednesday, Mar. 31, 2021
4:30 – 6 p.m.
Join us on Zoom
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89270518201?pwd=bmhIR2RqMXk0T3M3M21YM1hlVng3QT09
Dial in: 929-205-6099 | Meeting ID: 880 8785 0621 | Passcode: 524447
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kedaOTEG1R
If the Zoom link is not working, please visit out website here for the correct link or email us at info@creativewashtenaw.org and we will get back to you with the correct link.
Washtenaw County Expands Vaccine Eligibility
From the Health Department of Washtenaw County 3.3.21 Press Release - -
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced it is expanding vaccine eligibility starting Monday, March 8 to those 50 years old or older with medical conditions or disabilities, as well as caregiver family members and guardians age 16+ of children who have special health care needs.
Starting Monday, March 8 at 8:30am, newly eligible people will be able to complete our Health Department vaccine appointment request survey. Those who are eligible will likely have to wait several weeks or more (depending on supplies) before an appointment is available. Information on completing the survey will be available on this webpage (the homepage). On Monday, March 22, everyone 50 years old or older will be eligible for vaccine. We will share more about the vaccine request process for this group in the coming weeks. See the full press release from the state here. See the state’s updated priority guidance here.
To request a vaccine appointment from Washtenaw County, click here. You will be contacted as soon as possible, although it may take months to get an appointment.
As vaccine supply increases, officials will source to providers such as Meijer or pharmacies like Rite Aid, to function as distributors. Washtenaw County Health Department reports that there are not enough vaccines to schedule all those eligible at this time.
Essential Worker Organizations & Businesses in Washtenaw County that meet the 1B essential worker categories, the 1A health care worker categories or are looking for help with a senior independent living facility, skilled nursing facility or group home, fill out this organizational survey.
Not in Washtenaw County? Find your county vaccine registration information here.
B117 Strain in Washtenaw County
Since Mar. 2, there are now more than 402 cases of the B.1.1.7. variant found across 12 Michigan counties, including Washtenaw County. The B.1.1.7. strain, like others, is spread by droplets and aerosols. However, this variant latches on tighter than other strains and is more easily transmitted. Social distancing and avoidance of gatherings are strongly encouraged. Some experts recommend wearing two layers of masks or face shields for extra protection. According to Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS Chief Medical Officer, Michigan COVID cases are dropping. As of February 17, only 3.9% of COVID-19 tests are coming back positive across the state, a percentage that has continued to decline in the past five weeks." (Hutchinson, D. (2021, Feb. 17). Click On Detroit. We will keep you updated as we learn more about COVID-19 variation strains. This article by Bridge Michigan discusses COVID rates in nursing homes, the variant statistics and the trajectory of Michigan COVID cases.
Michigan Medicine on Johnson & Johnson's Single-Dose Vaccine
Michigan Medicine has announced that they have received their first supply of doses of the Janssen/Johnson & Johnson vaccine. They are currently reviewing safety and efficacy data in order to make sound decisions surrounding vaccine administration. For more information on this new vaccine, here are some resources to learn more:
FDA Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine Information
Information from Johnson & Johnson
COVID-19 Vaccine Information from Michigan Medicine
Janssen COVID-19 Information from the CDC
Vaccine Information and Availability - Washtenaw CountyMore Information on the COVID B117 Variant Health Department Washtenaw County Michigan Medicine's COVID-19 Vaccine Update and Availability |
Bridge Michigan put together a list of helpful tips that increases seniors and other essential workers' likelihood of finding a vaccination center and getting vaccinated. Many are having luck visiting Rite Aid for vaccines both in and out-of state. Visit Rite Aid's Vaccine Scheduler. If they don't have availability, do register and they will alert you when they have openings.
VaccineMI Project | COVID-19 Vaccine Availability
State of Michigan Relaxes Indoor Gatherings and Spaces Restrictions
As of Mar. 5, limits on indoor dining, store capacity and gatherings will be relaxed. Good news for Michigan store owners, small businesses and struggling entrepreneurs, the change in seating capacity will make a welcome difference. From 25% to 50%, up to 100 people, many are hoping this trend will continue in the coming months. Tracking with the rate of inoculation, Dr. Joneigh Khaldun states "our progress is very fragile." (Gardner, P. Bridge Michigan, Mar 2, 2021). The executive order will remain in effect until April 19. Read more here.
What This Means for Arts + Creatives Industries
As Michigan increases capacity, performing arts venues, museums, libraries and outdoor entertainment venues can look to fill more space.
- Indoor entertainment venues - 50% capacity, up to 300 people.
- Museums & libraries - 50% capacity.
- Outdoor entertainment - up to 1,000 patrons.
More details:
- Retail is allowed at 50 percent capacity.
- Casinos can operate at 30 percent capacity.
- Indoor stadiums and arenas are allowed to have 375 people if seating capacity is under 10,000 or 750 if seating capacity is over 10,000.
- Outdoor entertainment and recreational facilities may host up to 1,000 patrons.
- Indoor entertainment venues are allowed to be at 50 percent capacity, up to 300 people.
- Exercise facilities are allowed to be at 30 percent capacity.
Social interactions also were relaxed, according to the state:
- Indoor non-residential gatherings where people interact across households are permitted up to 25 people, allowing public meetings and other small indoor gatherings to resume.
- Outdoor non-residential gatherings where people interact across households are permitted up to 300, allowing larger outdoor events to resume.
Washtenaw County Small Business Resiliency Fund
Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan
Ann Arbor Spark Microloan Programs
Washtenaw United Way - Food and Essential Services
For a complete list of local resources, please visit our website here.
State of Michigan Finalizing $4.2 Billion COVID Relief Plan
The State of Michigan has passed the $4.2 billion COVID relief plan, authorizing the state to spend $3.45 billion in federal funding. An estimated $10 billion will be coming to Michigan out of the $350 awarded to help state and local governments. According to Bridge Michigan's Mar. 3 report, this stimulus package would allocate $110 million to vaccine distribution, $208 million to COVID testing, and $347 million for future testing needs, as well as $150 million to direct care workers and $600 million for enhanced food assistance benefits. Additionally, the plan includes a proposed $1.8 billion in federal funding for schools to help with in-person learning.
State Funding - Federal American Rescue Plan Relief
Of the $350 billion to be allocated for state and local governments, funds will be directed towards assistance for small businesses, nonprofits, and hard-hit industries like tourism, travel, and hospitality. Funding can also be used for the expansion of broadband coverage to rural and inner-city areas. $10 billion is designated for local capital infrastructure projects. We will keep you updated as we learn how these funds will be distributed throughout the state.
To Read, To Watch
Our frontline heroes - Michigan's nurses - discuss the relief they feel when administering COVID vaccines. Read more in this article by Bridge Michigan. Watch the MDHHS's #SpreadHomeNotCOVID Video | Michigan Vaccine PSA Testimonial Videos
SBA - Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) now open to Self-employed and Gig workers!
March 31 deadline
$7.25 billion added in the American Rescue Plan
Sole proprietors, gig workers and 1099s get more financial support
SBA revises the PPP’s funding formula for these categories of applicants. See the SBA update here
PPP Tips from Nina at Americans for the Arts
- If you are a self-employed individual, who will not be pursuing an SVOG, now is the ideal time to submit your PPP application for a new First or Second draw forgivable loan no later than Mar. 9. The final deadline for all
- If you are self-employed and have a PPP application “pending” with a lender for a new PPP loan, contact them immediately and let them know that you need to update your numbers using the new PPP Schedule C application form and rules.
- If you are self-employed and already received your new PPP loan this year, please contact your Members of Congress, the White House, and the SBA to ask them to correct this injustice of not allowing a retroactive change.
- Note: You cannot collect PUA while also drawing "payroll" funds during the "covered period" of your PPP loan. You'll need to determine which - PPP or PUA is best suited for your needs.
SBA - Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVO)
Application opening pushed back until at least after Mar 31.
New updates in the American Rescue Plan
- $1.25 billion additional funds for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program.
- SVO applicants can apply for both PPP and SVOG for a net award.
The last day to apply for a PPP is Mar. 31, 2021.
New SBA FAQs added on Mar. 5 - most likely will be updated again!
Earned or Gross? It's both
Gross Revenue for the First and Second Priority Grants
SBA has confirmed that eligibility will be based on minimum losses of 90% and 70% of gross revenue, respectively. However, there is still a possibility that certain revenue items, such as capital gains, could be exempted from the definition of gross revenue.
Earned revenue for Third Priority Applicants
Third priority grant losses of 25% will be based on earned revenue.
For more on types of grants, and an expanded exploration of revenue, please visit our document here on our website.
Americans for the Arts' Guide to Preparing for the SVO Application:
If you or your organization does not already have a Dunn and Bradstreet DUNS Number, get one. The SBA just posted a DUNS and SAM Registration how-to video, watch here. Also, read the SBA's Cross-Program Eligibility Chart here.
1. Use your DUNS number to register in the federal government’s System for Award Management (SAM). You can’t simply use a Taxpayer or Employer ID Number to apply for an SVO grant. (Note: It could take up to two weeks to finalize a SAM registration.)
2. Gather documents that demonstrate your number of employees and monthly revenues so you can calculate the average number of qualifying employees you had over the prior 12 months.
3. Determine your losses based on gross earned revenue and gross earned plus contributed revenue between 2019 and 2020 on a quarterly basis. Be prepared because the SBA keeps changing its definition of revenue.
4. Make PDFs of additional information such as floor plans, contract copies and other evidence that will be needed to apply for an SVO grant.
5. Sign up for a regional mailing list and webinar in your area and develop a direct relationship.
6. Ask the SBA specific questions about SVO eligibility by e-mailing SVOGrant@sba.gov.
REMEMBER...
DON'T WAIT to register on System for Award Management (SAM) and obtain a CAGE#. It is important you go through the process until you receive your CAGE#. Completing this process can take days or more. This is also important for any NEA or federal grants that you may be applying for. You cannot apply for SVO grant and PPP Round 2 - You must choose one or the other.
From the SBA:
· SVOG video for Live Venue Operators
· SVOG Video for Museum Operators
· SVOG video for Talent Reps
· How to Register for DUNS and SAM
· SVO Grant Preliminary Application Checklist
· SVO Eligibility Requirements
Where to stay tuned
Creative Washtenaw's compilation document clarifying the SBA's updates on eligibility and "gross" vs "earned" revenue, plus additional clarifications. Find it here.
SBA SVO | National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) | Creative Washtenaw | Americans for the Arts | Arts Action Fund Facebook Page | Check the NIVA Resource page in the Member Portal for updates.
Americans for the Arts Action Fund Office Hours with Nina Ozlu Tunceli - Note: The Americans for the Arts webinar remains postponed until further notice. We will keep you updated.
We can help you with SAM Registration and answer your questions about grants
Need help applying for Federal Grants? Lean on us to help.
Not sure how to get a SAM number?
Confused about the Shuttered Venues application timeline and process?
Send your questions to info@creativewashtenaw.org
We can help answer your questions and concerns so that you can be prepared to apply for federal grants, such as the SVO grant, which should be opening in the coming weeks. We are also open to hosting a webinar, pending interest.
Local
Contact your Michigan legislators to encourage MCACA funding that is critical to the arts + creative industries during COVID-19.
State/Regional
Learn about Michigan’s Coronavirus Racial Disparities Task Force working to increase data reporting transparency and reduce barriers to health care for impacted communities of color.
The Cultural Advocacy Network of Michigan strives to bring a collective voice for cultural organizations in Michigan.
Michigan Youth Arts is a statewide alliance that advocates for arts education through access, opportunity and cultivation of artistic excellence.
Federal
Artrain, Inc. and several other national, state and regional organizations have signed this document outlining a call for federal relief that will sustain the arts sector’s unique capacity to support the U.S. economy. Add your name by filling out this form here. Additionally, please sign this AFTA form urging Congress to sustain the arts and cultural sector.
Read the February 2021 federal arts sector and COVID-19 relief package
The National Council of Nonprofits drafted a letter to federal leaders asking to support nonprofit-specific grants, forgivable loans, refundable tax credits and a call for substantial financial aid to state and local governments. Sign the letter now! Join the 3,100 other nonprofits calling for relief. Once you've signed, share on social and use the hashtag #Relief4Charities
Help Nonprofit Advocacy efforts to secure legislative funding and guidance by completing the form on how COVID-19 has impacted your nonprofit.
The National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) is hard at work running the Save Our Stages campaign which includes over 3,000 venues pushing for legislation changes in Washington. Join NIVA here. Donate to the NIVA Emergency Relief Fund.
#ArtsCreateHope Campaign - Spread the hope and stay informed about the great need of arts organizations during the COVID pandemic.
Creative Washtenaw
– COVID-19 Resources for Washtenaw County
– Aid, Assistance & Grants beyond Washtenaw County
– COVID-19 Health-Specific Updates and Resources
– COVID-19 Michigan Legislation & 411 for Workers & Businesses
– COVID-19 Federal Legislation + 411 for Workers & Businesses
– General Resources for Artists, Creative Workers & Businesses
Beyond Washtenaw
Americans for the Arts
- COVID-19's Pandemic's Impact on The Arts
- The Ongoing Impacts of COVID-19 : A Survey of Arts and Cultural Organizations and Creative Businesses. Americans for the Arts
- The Economic Impact of Coronavirus on the Arts and Culture Sector - Dash Board
- CAREs Act Table of Funding Opportunities for the Arts and Artists
- National Arts Administration and Policy Publications Database (NAAPPD)
- Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resource and Response Center with constantly updated information for:
– For creative organizations & businesses
– For artists and creative workers
– For arts + creative education, including school openings and closings
– Field tools and research
– Equity and mental health
– Reopening and resources
The COVID-19 Audience Outlook Monitor
Audience Outlook Monitor - WolfBrown developed this worldwide tracking study of audience attitudes about attendance at arts and cultural programs during and after the COVID-19 Crisis. Find timely and essential data to the sector’s decision-making about when and how to resume programming. Audience Outlook Monitor Orientation to Phase 2
Surveys
- Assessment of digital arts infrastructure, programmatic activity and general creative opportunity across the seven-county Southeast Michigan cultural sector. Culture Source's survey
- Community Needs Survey Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan
Are you paying artists and creative workers a fair wage?
Working Artists and the Greater Economy (W.A.G.E) is a national program initiated and operated by W.A.G.E. that publicly recognizes those nonprofit arts organizations demonstrating a history of, and commitment to, voluntarily paying artist fees that meet our minimum payment standards. If you are interested in becoming W.A.G.E. Certified please read the guidelines below, use the Fee Calculator and then begin an application here.
Washtenaw and local
Michigan Works! Southeast provides a plethora of support, training and services for job seekers.
Washtenaw County Office of Community and Economic Development in partnership with United Way of Washtenaw County, has launched a Financial Navigator program to help residents manage the financial impact of COVID-19. Financial Navigators provide one-on-one telephone assistance (at no cost) navigating critical financial issues and making referrals to other social services and resources. Click HERE to read more or call 734-677-7202 to talk to a Financial Navigator.
Michigan
How The American Rescue Plan will rebuild Michigan's unemployment fund
Latest resources from the Restaurant Meal Program and Epidemic Orders.
Resuming Pandemic Unemployment Assistance
PEUC/PUA/PUC/PEUC Claimant Information
Claimants who did not exhaust their original 13 weeks of PEUC will be able to claim the balance of remaining weeks beginning with the week ending Jan. 2, 2021. Payments will include the additional $300 Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefit.
Claimants who did not exhaust their original 39 weeks of PUA will be able to claim the balance of remaining weeks beginning with the week ending Jan. 2, 2021. Payments will include the additional $300 FPUC.
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA): Extends and phases out PUA, a temporary federal program covering self-employed and gig workers, to March 14 (after which no new applicants) through Apr. 5, 2021.Provides additional weeks for those who would otherwise exhaust benefits by extending PUA from 39 to 50 weeks— with all benefits ending April 5, 2021.
Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (PUC): Provides all unemployment recipients with an additional $300 per week from Dec. 27 through Mar. 13, 2021.
Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC): Extends and phases out PEUC, which provides additional weeks when state unemployment runs out, to Mar.14 (after which no new applications) through April 5, 2021. PEUC provides additional weeks for those who would otherwise exhaust benefits by increasing weeks available from 13 to 24—with all benefits ending Apr. 5, 2021.
Federal
MDHSS resources, Restaurant Meal Program and Epidemic Orders.
President Biden's American Rescue Plan Details
SBA Debt Relief (for existing borrowers)
COVID Tax Provisions for Nonprofits Chart
With the aesthetic and intrinsic values of the arts + creativity at its core, creative:impact has a twofold purpose. First, to impress upon listeners the impact and interconnectivity of the arts + creative sector on our lives and community. Second, to tell that story through local artists and creative people – professionals, amateurs, students and industry experts leading the sector locally, nationally and internationally – those with creative practices, businesses and holding creative jobs in profit, nonprofit, educational and government entities. With deep connections to Washtenaw County, they make the greater Ann Arbor area one of Michigan's strongest and most vibrant arts + creative industry hubs.
Tune-in to creative:impact co-hosted by Deb Polich, president/CEO of Creative Washtenaw and WEMU's David Fair every Tuesday during Morning Edition at 7:49 a.m. and 9:49 a.m. Find archive editions here.
Inspiration and Invention for this architect is born of love
Mar. 2, 2021 - Sean Ahlquist is an accomplished architect in the area of design and fabrication of pre-stressed lightweight structures and innovations in textile-reinforced composite materials. It was his love for his daughter Ara that inspired his innovation: a social sensory playscape for children on the Autism spectrum. Sean tells Deb Polich and David Fair how a dad wanting to connect with his daughter led to a breakthrough on this edition of "creative:impact." Listen here.
Turning SCRAP heaps into craft keeps
Mar. 9, 2021 - Using creativity to keep usable waste from the landfill is the mission of SCRAP Creative Reuse and the subject of creative;impact when Claire Tyra, the director of SCRAP joins Deb Polich of The Arts Alliance and David Fair. Listen here.
"Art Fix Friday: Interviews, Shows & Work of Women Artists and Front Page Femmes" - National Museum of Women in the Arts
"Discovering women artists of the past to support artists of present" - International Women's Day
"1st Friday Focus On The Environment: Women's History Month-Honoring Lana Pollack And Lisa Wozniak" - WEMU
"Celebrate Women's History Month with these streaming movies and TV shows" - C|Net
"Equal at Last? Women In Jazz, By The Numbers" - NPR
"Anti-Colonial Orchestras: A Cultural Response to Classical Music Imperialism" - Mae Mai
"Opera Singers Help COVID-19 Patients Learn to Breathe Again" - The New York Times
"Lincoln Center Will Head Outside Its Closed Theaters to Perform" - The New York Times
"Motown Accelerator Opens 2021 Artist and Manager Applications" - Michigan Chronicle
"Responding to crises: constructing a response through organizational change" - Jeff M. Poulin, Arts Education Policy Review
Why Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Matter for Nonprofits - National Council of Nonprofits
"Start Somewhere: How to start the Conversation with our Children about Racism" - Ann Arbor Family Press
When questions are our best answers: responding to the impact of COVID-19 on community-based arts education organizations: a special issue of Arts Education Policy Review - Dennie Palmer Wolf, Arts Education Policy Review
"How to Talk to a COVID Denier" - Verywell Mind
"It's Not Just You. A Lot of Us Are Hitting A Pandemic Wall Right Now" - HuffPost Life
Enjoy programs and presentations from your arts + creative community
Penny W. Stamps Artist Talks + Virtual Opening Reception for Heartened Surfaces: The 2021 MFA Thesis Exhibition
Saturday Mar. 20, at 5 p.m. Join Stamps Gallery for the Virtual Opening Reception for Heartened Surfaces: The 2021 MFA Thesis Exhibition. Each student will be giving an Artist Talk about their work accompanied by a live Q&A. This event is free and open to the public. Registration required. Learn more here.
Wonderfool Productions - FoolMoon 2021
An annual celebration of the power of creativity and light in building community in Ann Arbor. With community art making beginning in March, an array of light-filled, public art will unfold across downtown Ann Arbor and culminate on Friday, Apr. 9, 2021 through socially distanced experiences in town, at home, and online to spark wonder and delight for all ages. Learn more here.
Ann Arbor Symphony Announces Virtual Concerts at Michigan Theater
The orchestra will perform three concerts with full string orchestra at the Michigan Theater along with additional virtual chamber music performances paired with pick-up meals from local Ann Arbor restaurants. These performances will be recorded live without audience and will be available for on-demand streaming until June 30, 2021. Virtual concert passes can be purchased for $50 for households, and $10 for students. Purchase tickets here.
22 North Gallery Presents "minute: a slice of life" Exhibition
An in-person and online exhibition that focuses on the artist’s everyday life showcasing their minutes as objects of representation, identification, and discovery. Open hours are Thursdays and Fridays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., by appointment. You can schedule an appointment here. Learn more about the exhibition here.
The Ark Calendar of Events
The Ark has a brimming lineup of live-streamed events. Read their full calendar of events here.
The Blue LLama Livestream Series
Featuring live-streamed 75-minute long concerts including meet & greets over Zoom. Learn more here.
Ann Arbor Society for Musical Arts 2021 Spring Concert Series - Wednesday Morning Musicales
Performances run March through May. All concerts begin at 10:30 a.m. Learn more and purchase tickets here.
Kerrytown Concert House's Edgefest: Ann Arbor’s Premiere Avant-Garde Jazz Festival
Runs through Mar. 26 every Friday at 7:30 p.m. Concerts are free and donations are strongly encouraged. Learn more here.
Michigan and State Theaters - Host a Private Screening
View film of your choice, maximum capacity in largest theater is 26 individuals. Fill out rental request form and learn more here.
Want to add your events?
Event listings and calendar postings are an exclusive benefit for CW members. We would be happy to welcome you as a member!
Click here for membership information.
Local
Michigan Nonprofit Association Webinar: From Talk to Action: Policymaking at the Margins - Mar. 23, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Virtual on Zoom.
Why the arts + creative industries matter in Michigan
Why the arts + creative industries matter in Washtenaw County
State
Michigan Cultural Advocacy Network - Virtual Advocacy Day - March 11 & 12, 2021 Register by March 1
Five Essential Arts Arguments to Make - Arts Midwest
Fact vs. Fiction Government Arts Funding
Tell your legislators what you need! Interested in learning how to be a better advocate? Attend a series of regional Advocacy 101 Webinars that provide the tools to help you become the best advocate for the issues you care about. Locally elected officials will be joining the conversation and giving their advice on advocacy. Learn more here.
Federal
Nonprofit Coalition Letter to the President and Congressional Leaders Led by the National Council of Nonprofits (NCN), this letter asks President Biden and Congressional leaders to enact a package of relief solutions tailored to the actual needs and realities of nonprofits. The letter is open to national, state, and local organizations, and is open indefinitely (NCN has been updating the letter weekly with new signers and currently has more than 3,000 signatories from all 50 states).
Artrain, Inc. and several other national, state and regional organizations have signed this document outlining a call for federal relief that will sustain the arts sector’s unique capacity to support the U.S. economy. Add your name by filling out this form here. Additionally, please sign this AFTA form urging Congress to sustain the arts and cultural sector.
Culture Source Webinar - New Findings on Arts Advocacy: How to Talk About Public Funding - Featuring Pam Breaux, President/CEO, National Assembly of State Arts Agencies. Mar. 4, 12:00-12:30pm EST, via Zoom.
NTEN's Equity Guide for Nonprofit Technology helps staff use technology strategically in racially equitable ways to meet their missions and community needs.
Join the Arts Action Fund. 423,454 members and counting. Congress needs to know there are millions of arts and creative workers, businesses and citizens who insist that arts and creativity are critical to our country.
National Assembly of State Art Agencies. State arts agencies ensure that every community in America receives the cultural, civic, economic and educational benefits of the arts. They support and advocate for public spaces, arts in education, access to arts and inclusion.
Building Movement Project - Tools to Engage. This collection of tools can help your nonprofit center the leadership of those with lived experiences, engaging them as partners in building solutions for communities.
The National Council of Nonprofits drafted a letter to federal leaders asking to support nonprofit-specific grants, forgivable loans, refundable tax credits and a call for substantial financial aid to state and local governments. Sign the letter now! Join the 3,100 other nonprofits calling for relief. Once you've signed, share on social and use the hashtag #Relief4Charities
2021 National Arts Action Summit - Join Americans for the Arts from April 5 - 9 to learn compelling up-to-the-minute data, the latest in arts policy and how to effectively engage decision-makers to support the arts, arts education and much more! We strongly encourage arts advocates that identify as, reside in and/or directly serve communities of color, rural populations and/or marginalized audiences to submit a request for a scholarship by Feb. 26, at 9 a.m. Register and learn more here.
SaveArtSpace 2021 Open Calls for Artists and Activists- submit impactful art for local and national placement on billboards and public art spaces in Denver, NYC, Los Angeles or Washington D.C. Varying deadlines January-March. Learn more here.
Be An Arts Hero - a grassroots campaign composed of arts & culture workers and unions encouraging officials to allocate relief to the arts & culture sector of the American economy. Join the Michigan Venue & Promoter Association here.
NonProfitAF - a mobilized support network for nonprofit leadership seeking information on funding, grant writing, donor relations, office culture and more. Bring your sense of humor - it's pretty witty! Learn more about their Happy Hours and community forums here.
Make a donation to Americans for the Arts to sustain the arts in communities across our nation and help us bring tools, training, research and advocacy to a massive network of artists, administrators, leaders and educators who need them.
Join the Arts Action Fund to advance the arts and arts education in your community and across the country.
It's FREE and takes just a minute. Add your name and be counted so Congress know there are millions of arts and creative workers, businesses and citizens who insist that arts and creativity are critical to our country. Join here for updates and calls to action.
Annual membership is free and your online benefits include:
- Membership to vote on the legislative policy platforms
- Breaking news and legislative alerts from the E-Advocacy center
- Quarterly updates through Arts Action eNews
- Exclusive access to the member's only Arts Action Fund PAC
National
**Deadline Today!** National Endowment for the Arts - Creative Writing Fellowships - Application Deadline Mar. 10
The National Endowment for the Arts Literature Fellowships program offers $25,000 grants in prose (fiction and creative nonfiction) and poetry to published creative writers that enable recipients to set aside time for writing, research, travel and general career advancement. Learn more and apply here.
National Endowment for the Arts - Research Awards- Application Deadline Mar. 29
The National Endowment for the Arts invites applicants to engage with the agency’s five-year research agenda through two funding opportunities for research projects: Research Grants in the Arts and NEA Research Labs. Learn more and apply here.
2021 Beaujolais Nouveau Artist Label Contest- Deadline Mar. 31
Enter for a chance to have your artwork featured on over one million wine labels. Must be 21+ to enter. Learn more here.
Chamber Music America - Classical Commissioning Program - Deadline Apr. 23
Grants available to professional U.S.-based presenters and ensembles whose programming includes Western European and/or non-Western classical and contemporary music. Grants are provided for the commissioning and performance of new works by American composers. The program supports works scored for 2–10 musicians performing one per part, composed in any of the musical styles associated with contemporary classical music. Learn more and apply here.
Ongoing - Mellon Foundation Announces Second Round of Art Museum Futures Fund Grants
One-third of U.S. museums are at risk of permanent closure. The Art Museum Futures Fund will offer grants to 14 small art museums with ties to community and social justice. Learn about grants and the application process here.
Ongoing - Foundation for Contemporary Artists Emergency Grants
A range of national grants and resources for visual and performing artists who have been impacted by the economic fallout from postponed or canceled performances and exhibitions. Learn more here.
Ongoing - The Adolph & Esther Gottlieb Emergency Grant for Painters, Printmakers & Sculptors
The Adolph and Esther Gottlieb Emergency Grant program is intended to provide interim financial assistance to qualified painters, printmakers, and sculptors whose needs are the result of an unforeseen, catastrophic incident, and who lack the resources to meet that situation. Each grant is given as one-time assistance for a specific emergency, examples of which are fire, flood, or emergency medical need. Learn more here.
Ongoing - Herb Alpert National Relief Grants
The Herb Alpert Foundation supports several organizations and programs that directly support musicians, actors, nonprofits and arts + education programs. Read more about these organizations and their grant and relief offerings here.
Ongoing - The Joni Mitchell Foundation Emergency Resources & Grants for Visual Artists
The Joni Mitchell Foundation's Emergency Grants budgets to Artist Relief, a national, multidisciplinary initiative offering rapid, unrestricted funding of $5,000 to individual artists in all disciplines. In addition, they've compiled a list of resources that may address your most immediate needs. This is an evolving list that is updated; access it here.
COVID-19 Freelance Artist Resource - an iterative, responsive project composed of five freelance producers and culture makers who produce webinars and resources to raise the collective knowledge body of freelance, unaffiliated artists in the U.S.
A Complete Guide to 2021 Artist Grants & Opportunities | Artwork Archive
COVID National Resources for Artists, Creative Workers & Businesses
General Resources for Artists, Creative Workers & Businesses *Some organizations may still be offering COVID relief; please check their websites directly.*
Local, Regional & State
Motown Musician Accelerator Program - Apply by Mar. 14
Motown Accelerator is an education and grant initiative designed to help music communities level up and break out. Motown Accelerator hosts free public programming accessible to the entire community and also offers dedicated support to artists that have the capability of putting cities on the map as a factory for talent. Learn more about the application program open to Metro Detroit-based artists.
Michigan $15,000 Humanities Grants - Spring Grants Deadline Mar. 18
Humanities Grants emphasize collaboration among cultural, educational and community-based organizations and institutions in order to serve Michigan’s people with public humanities programming. There are two steps to this grant program. Find all the details here. Mar. 18, 2021 - Final grant application due.
Michigan Humanities - $1,500 Bridging Michigan Grants
For Michigan nonprofits producing and presenting public humanities programs. Open until funds expended. Apply here.
Save Art Space - Deadlines Mar. 25 and Apr. 12
Submit your original artwork for billboard display in Detroit and other big cities. Open calls. Learn more here.
Golden Paintbrush Awards - Deadline Apr. 30
The Golden Paintbrush Award recognizes adults, children and organizations who have encouraged creativity in Ann Arbor's publicly visible spaces. Awards will be given for art which demonstrates collaboration and excellence, and which adds a bit of magic to our daily life. Visual, music and other arts, including online, are eligible. Anyone can submit a nomination using the online submission form.
The Michigan Nonprofit Association (MNA) Job Postings
Maker Works Seeks Part-Time Front Desk Worker
Arts Midwest - Communications and Finance Positions
Culture Source - Seeking Communications Director
The Acorn, Executive Director
Living Arts, Executive Director
Walloon Lake, Director, Director of Development and Communications
The Michigan WWII Legacy Memorial, Executive Director
Automotive Hall of Fame, Inc., Development Specialist
Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, Public Spaces Coordinator
Michigan Humanities, Programs & Communications Coordinator
Detroit Historical Society, vice president of philanthropy - Centennial Campaign Leader
Michigan Opera Theatre, Box office manager
WEMU 89.1 FM - Local news coverage plus local arts + creative coverage including Art & Soul with Lisa Barry, Cinema Chat with the Michigan Theater's Russ Collins and creative:impact with The Arts Alliance's own Deb Polich.
Bridge Magazine - Michigan's nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that provides passionate and rooted Michigan readers with honest, fact-driven journalism on the state’s diverse people, politics and economy.
All About Ann Arbor - offers local news, feature stories, restaurant news, sports news, latest events in town and more for Ann Arbor residents.
Concentrate Magazine - tells the narrative of Washtenaw County’s narrative people and businesses, new development, cool places to live, and the best places to work and play. The weekly online magazine is published Wednesdays.
For the fastest updates and breaking news!
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The Arts Alliance’s COVID-19 Support Page
- Resources– including advocacy, support and affiliation agencies
The Arts + Creative Industries Guide
With links to creative members and businesses.
Featuring hundreds of artists, creative workers, businesses and ally members, this is your guide to what makes Creative Washtenaw, and the greater Ann Arbor area one of Michigan’s strongest and most vibrant arts + creative industry hubs.
Creative Washtenaw is the arts + creative industry authority in Washtenaw County. A regional agency, its mission is to support, assist, aid and act in the interest of artists, creative workers, organizations, businesses, educational and government entities to ensure that the greater Ann Arbor, Michigan, region remains a great place to create, live, work, learn, play and visit.
The intrinsic and aesthetic values of the arts and creativity are determining factors of success for Creative Washtenaw members. They include local artists and creative people – professionals, amateurs, students and industry experts leading the sector locally, nationally and internationally – those with creative practices, businesses and holding creative jobs in profit, nonprofit, educational and government entities. With deep connections to Washtenaw County, they make the greater Ann Arbor area one of Michigan's strongest and most vibrant arts + creative industry hubs.
Creative Washtenaw serves Ann Arbor, Chelsea, Dexter, Manchester, Milan, Saline, Whitmore Lake and Ypsilanti plus the 21 townships in the county. It is committed to, forever evolving and learning about diversity, equity and inclusion. This includes learning how its community defines the intrinsic and aesthetic qualities of art and creativity by the cultural expert, the credentialed scholar, the journeyed or self-taught master and/or the astute consumer of the form.
Creative Washtenaw is supported by its members, the National Endowment for the Arts and the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.
For more information, please go to Creative Washtenaw or contact info@creativewashtenaw.org or call or 734-213-2733.
