On September 16, the Hernando County Fine Arts Council (HCFAC) announced the launch of its 2024 Community Arts Grants (CAG) Program. According to a press release from the HCFAC’s Jessica Knutila, the organization invites any and all Hernando County art, education, or cultural coalitions that are recognized as non-profits or charitable groups to apply for the initiative.
“This grant program aims to empower nonprofits to involve county residents in creating, appreciating, supporting, participating in, or learning about the creative arts in Hernando County by providing them with financial support to fuel their artistic endeavors,” the release continued.
The grants provided by the HCFAC look to give these organizations a “transformative” opportunity to carry out artistic endeavors and initiatives that are in the interest of their local communities. The nonprofits that are looking to enact projects such as sculptures, murals, performances, art-focused events, or art instruction should consider applying.
“The Hernando County Fine Arts Council recognizes the invaluable role that nonprofits play in fostering artistic expression and cultural growth,” said Allisa Babor, Chair of the Hernando Arts Council. “We hope to support nonprofits in bringing their artistic visions to life and create meaningful experiences for the Hernando County community with this program.”
On the back end of the intense summer heat, the council brought back one such of their other initiatives – the Hernando Beach Front Porch Art Walk. This is a monthly gathering, which takes place on the first Saturday of every month, that sees local artists showing off their work and plying their trade to interested passersby. Unfortunately, due to Hurricane Helene, the art walk has been postponed indefinitely.
The council’s mission is to encourage and aid in the development of the creative arts across the county and subsequently provide a means of showcasing these endeavors. They accomplish this through engagement, education, advocacy, and artistic programs such as CAG. The group is “dedicated to providing accessible opportunities that invite art into the lives of Hernando County residents and visitors,” Knutila’s notice stated.
While the application process for the CAG program is now open, the deadline is fast approaching. Submissions are due by October 6, 2024, a 9:00 p.m. The HCFAC encourages interested nonprofits to visit their website at www.hernandoarts.org/cag to access the online application form. To stay up to date on all the latest information regarding events and opportunities, citizens can visit their social media accounts (@hernandoarts) or sign up for their newsletter at www.hernandoarts.org/newsletter.
