Local entities receive twenty-four arts grants

The Arlington Commission for Arts and Culture (ACAC) Grants Committee has recently awarded 24 grants totaling $21,326 to support various arts and culture initiatives in the community. The grants, ranging from $100 to $1,500, were given to a diverse group of recipients representing different artistic genres such as music, dance, theater, and fine art.

The committee, consisting of Brian McMurray, Todd Brunel, Andrew Conway, Nancy Gray, and Shelley Chhabra, expressed their excitement for this year’s recipients. They encouraged the community to explore the work of the grant recipients and participate in the various programs with friends and family.

The grants are part of the Mass Cultural Council Local Cultural Council Program, which aims to enrich the cultural life of cities and towns in Massachusetts. The program, led by municipally appointed volunteers, awards over $5 million annually to support cultural programs like field trips, lectures, festivals, and dance performances.

Some of the projects funded by this year’s grants include a festive music program celebrating traditional Irish music, an art project for climate action, free arts programs for community members, a young artist competition, and a chamber music concert featuring movie themes for strings.

The committee also announced that information about applying for the 2025 grants will be available in late summer, with an expected application deadline in the fall. They look forward to continuing to support and serve the community through the arts and cultural initiatives.