November 17, 2016

Creative Spark Vancouver Grants for Emerging Artists

"Creative Spark Vancouver helped me see how I can expand my work with the public in different directions." —Zee Kesler, Artist

The next deadline for Vancouver artists to apply for Creative Spark Vancouver grants is just a few weeks away! Have you dreamed up your creative project yet? Be sure to apply for funding by December 15, 2016.

Emerging artists of any age in any artistic discipline who are residents of the City of Vancouver, or residents and members of the Musqueam, Squamish or Tsleil-Waututh First Nations are welcome to apply.

Designed for artists with an interest in building their careers and working with young people in an arts-based capacity,Creative Spark Vancouver grants offer 100% coverage for projects, up to $1,000. Grant funds are intended to cover artist fees, project materials and supplies, rentals and honoraria.

The goals of Creative Spark Vancouver are to:

• Build the capacity and confidence of emerging artists working with young people and arts-based learning;
• Provide young people opportunities to engage actively in the arts; and
• Embrace diversity, innovation and artistic excellence.

Creative Spark Vancouver is disbursed by ArtStarts in Schools and funded by the City of Vancouver.

Learn more at artstarts.com/creativesparkvancouver

The deadline to apply is December 15, 2016.

Still not sure what creative project you might develop? Here are some examples of successfully funded projects to date:

• A series of arts-based workshops for self-identified Muslim youth, including photographic self-portraits and creative writing, to showcase their beauty and diversity and create a safe space for expression
• An arts-integrated learning project for ages 5-12 to create multimedia dioramas inspired by ideas of ecosystem and sustainability
• A professional workshop and public reading of a play for young audiences, to bring it to the next stage of its development
• An weekly workshop where families learn about plants and berries that can be used for dyeing wool and develop their own weaving skills
• A four-month pilot program of drama therapy and theatre arts classes for children ages 6-12 to explore the healing power of drama
• A project that turns a park space into a musical playground for youth, with hands-on workshops about making instruments from household objects
• Workshops that engage young people in the creation of theatre art and provide mentorship with playwriting, acting, and direction
• A creative exercise to teaches participants how to "think like an artist" by being present to our surroundings and searching for beauty and wonder in everyday routines and experiences

This list is not comprehensive. We hope these examples inspire you and spark your imagination. Apply for a Creative Spark Vancouver grant and bring your unique creative project to life!