Arts Council Expands Emergency Fund for Artists, Asks for Donations in Response to Coronavirus

Pittsburgh—March 17, 2020 – In response to COVID-19's impact on the arts community, the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council has temporarily expanded the application guidelines of its Emergency Fund for Artists to cover up to $500 in loss of income due to coronavirus-related closings. The Arts Council is also asking for help raising funds to support the Emergency Fund.

The widespread cancellation of events, gigs, and gatherings in Southwestern Pennsylvania has greatly impacted the livelihood of our region's artists and creative workers. While it's essential that we all practice social distancing during this time, the impact on our community is undeniable. Most artists are working full- or part-time in their fields and rely on gigs or teaching as their main source of income.

Eligibility

The Arts Council has expanded the Emergency Fund's scope to cover up to $500 from loss of income due to coronavirus-related closings and cancellations for artists who live in Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Washington, Lawrence, Indiana, Greene, Fayette, Washington, and Westmoreland counties. The fund was originally created to support artists that have experienced specific emergencies such as fire, flood, accident, theft that have impacted their ability to continue their artistic practice.

How Funds Are Distributed

There are no deadlines and each application is considered on a case-by-case basis. Funding is determined according to the individual's need and according to each specific case. The most critical, urgent situations will be given priority. Applications are reviewed anonymously by an advisory committee of skilled professionals in emergency response, health, social services, and the arts.

How to Apply

Eligible artists can complete the application form online and view full eligibility guidelines on our website. All information is confidential, and that confidentiality will be respected by the advisory committee and Arts Council staff members who review your information. Please email questions related to the Arts Council's Emergency Fund to effa@pittsburghartscouncil.org.

Additional Support Needed for the Emergency Fund for Artists

The Emergency Fund for Artists was not originally intended for this purpose and the funds available are limited. Additional funds will help the Arts Council assist more creative workers in Southwestern Pennsylvania. The Arts Council encourages individuals to make a donation directly to the Emergency Fund for Artists online. A Facebook fundraiser is also available to support the Emergency Fund for Artists.

###

Category

Grantmaking

About the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council

The Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council champions the arts in Southwestern Pennsylvania, providing financial, professional, and political support for the arts and culture sector. Comprised of more than 600 diverse artists and nonprofit organizations, the Arts Council offers valuable research, legal and business consulting, networking and professional development opportunities so that artists, as well as arts leaders and organizations, can grow their skills and advance their practice. The Arts Council provides grants for artists and arts organizations, leads the region's arts advocacy at the local, state, and national level, and models best practices for accessibility and equity in the arts.

For interviews with the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council, image use requests, and any other media questions, please contact Manager of Communications Lisa Cunningham at 412-391-2060, ext. 227 or lcunningham@pittsburghartscouncil.org.