South Dakota Arts Council
711 E. Wells Ave
Pierre, SD 57501

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT: Michael Pangburn, 605.773.5507

South Dakota Arts Council Announces $1.2 million in FY 2012 Grants

PIERRE, SD – The South Dakota Arts Council (SDAC) awarded $1.2 million in FY 2012 grants and special initiatives during its annual spring grants meeting at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. The Council provided funding for more than 200 artists, arts organizations, schools, and art projects across the state.

“The arts are an essential part of the state’s human resources,” said Department of Tourism Secretary Jim Hagen. “Arts Council funding makes it possible for South Dakotans and our visitors to experience, enjoy, and appreciate the state’s unique culture and artistic accomplishments.” The offices of Tourism, History, and the Arts comprise the South Dakota Department of Tourism.

SDAC grants were awarded to arts organizations and other nonprofit groups producing arts activities. Through various grant categories, the Council conferred 70 grants to organizations totaling $601,000. It also approved a budget of $157,000 to fund approximately 230 weeks of artist residencies with 120 schools and community-based groups. Grants encourage these organizations to develop and sustain arts projects important to their communities.

In support of artists and their varied activities, SDAC awarded 6 artist fellowships, an artist collaboration grant, 9 artist project grants, four traditional arts apprenticeship grants, and 45 touring arts grants, totaling $224,338. These grants contribute to the artists’ professional growth and career development. Touring Arts grants also assist nonprofit groups in providing quality performances and exhibitions to South Dakotans across the state.

The Council allocated $250,662 for grants and initiatives that fund special activities in education, public awareness, traditional arts, technical assistance, professional development, excursions, the state’s Dance on Tour program, Poetry Out Loud, and interim special projects.

Funds for Arts Council grants are provided by the National Endowment for the Arts and the State of South Dakota and help to create $14 million in local matching funds and spending.

“The balance of public and private dollars as well as the matching funds commitment from federal, state and local levels sends a strong message that the arts are important to our state,” said SDAC Executive Director Michael Pangburn.

The South Dakota Arts Council is a state agency within the Department of Tourism. The Council’s mission is to provide information, grants, and services to artists, arts organizations, and schools throughout the state. For more information about SDAC programs, visit www.artscouncil.sd.gov, call 605-773-3301, or email sdac@state.sd.us.