As autumn begins, we look forward to all that is in store over the next few months. If you haven’t already heard, our State Arts Conference has been postponed to May 12, 2022, due to the rise of the Delta variant of COVID-19. We believe this move will allow us a much better chance to convene and network in person. Also, please mark your calendars for the Governor’s Arts Awards on Thursday, February 10, 2022, in downtown Jackson.

Stay tuned for several smaller arts events on the horizon as well. MAC will soon announce a mental health initiative for artists with an event coming up in late October. We have a few professional development webinars coming up as well.

Perhaps the biggest news of late is our announcement of the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Grants, made possible by the National Endowment for the Arts. If you are part of an eligible arts organization, we encourage you to apply for RESCUE Grants, opening Oct. 18. We are grateful for these funds, especially after recent event cancellations. As an agency, we are committed to helping the arts sector weather this pandemic, and thrive well beyond it.

Last month, Mississippi’s coast was largely spared from Ida’s impacts, but our friends in Louisiana were not so lucky. If you are able, please consider donating to a fund of your choice in support of our neighbors. Here is one that specifically benefits artists from the Arts Council New Orleans.   

Stay tuned for more exciting news in October, as we plan to announce the Governor’s Arts Awards recipients and more opportunities to engage with MAC.

We look forward to brighter, cooler, and more art-filled days ahead.

My best,

Sarah Story