JACKSON, MISS. – July 10, 2018 – The Mississippi Arts Commission has awarded nearly $1.4 million in funding to artists and arts programs across the state for fiscal year 2019.

Funds were awarded in 60 Mississippi House of Representatives districts and 38 state Senate districts, to 134 organizations and schools and to 31 individual artists. Recipients will benefit in a number of ways, including operating support for museums and community arts centers, arts integration and guest artist presentations in schools and continuing education and supplies for working artists.

“Many deserving artists, arts organizations and communities received grants this fiscal year, and we congratulate them all,” said Malcolm White, executive director of MAC. “Through grant-making, the Mississippi Arts Commission helps provide arts experiences and educational opportunities to people in nearly every corner of the state.”

In addition to making direct grants, MAC accepted 30 schools into its Whole Schools Initiative program in fiscal year 2019. The program provides educators with intensive professional development for integrating the arts across the curriculum.

MAC also approved 35 artists and performing groups for inclusion in its Artist Roster and Teaching Artist Roster, which features many of the best artists and arts demonstrators working in the state. The Artist Roster is updated annually on MAC’s website, and the newest edition will be available in the fall.

Non-profit organizations or schools can apply to MAC’s Minigrant program to support a performance or workshop by a Roster Artist. The next opportunity to apply for a Minigrant will be October 2018. For a full list of grantees, please visit the following link: https://arts.ms.gov/fy2019-grant-recipients/. For more information on MAC’s grant programs, Artist Roster and other services, visit the agency’s website at www.arts.ms.gov.

Contact:  Anna Ehrgott | Communications Director | aehrgott@arts.ms.gov | (601) 359-6546