Arts council has record-breaking year

The Lake Region Arts Council (LRAC) completed a busy year – awarding more funding to more organizations than any time in its history.

The addition of the Arts and Cultural Heritage Funding has made a significant economic impact on the communities in the region, according to council leaders.

The Legacy Act money, obtained through a sales tax increase approved by voters in 2008, additional funding from the Minnesota Legislature and contributions from The McKnight Foundation allowed the LRAC to contribute $335,965 to support arts programs in local communities.

The LRAC serves a nine-county area that includes Becker, Clay, Douglas, Grant, Otter Tail, Pope, Stevens, Traverse and Wilkin counties.

The LRAC awarded the following grants during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2010:

Funded by the Minnesota State Legislature and the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund:

Legacy grants – 43 applicants requested $586,560; funding was awarded to 23 applicants for $242,600.

Project grants – 41 applicants requested $74,150; funding was given to 30 applicants for $47,565.

Operating support grants – 11 applicants requested $33,780; funding was awarded to 11 applicants for $18,800.

Funded with support from The McKnight Foundation:

Career development grants – eight applicants requested $8,780; funding was given to eight applicants for $8,500.

LRAC/McKnight Artist Fellowship – 11 applicants requested $55,000; funding was given to one applicant for $5,000.

Artist small grants – 18 applicants requested $9,000; funding was awarded to nine applicants for $4,500.

Artist mentor program – 29 applicants requested $14,500; funding was given to 18 applicants for $9,000.

Total awarded from the Lake Region Arts Council to artists and arts organizations in fiscal year 2010 – $335,965.

July 1 marked the beginning of a new fiscal year. If you are interested in any of the grants and services that the Lake Region Arts Council offers, call (218) 739-5780, e-mail LRAC4@charterinternet.com or visit the website at www.LRAC4.org.

Tags: local news, lake region arts council, news, arts, lrac