GPAC Emergency Fund Supports Its First Artist
Pittsburgh – April 5, 2019 – The Emergency Fund for Artists, administered by the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council, has awarded its first emergency grant to local guitarist Nathan Zoob. Launched in 2018, the Emergency Fund for Artists provides $300-$1,000 grants to support individuals who have experienced career-threatening situations, such as a fire, flood, accident or theft.
Zoob was awarded $1,000 to replace his pedal bag, full of specialized tools and guitar pedals worth approximately $1,300, which were stolen in February.
“Without the support of the Emergency Fund for Artists, my art practice would be set back at least six months while I saved money to replace my equipment,” explained Zoob, who is currently working on a new record.
Replacing materials, equipment or instruments can be costly and life-changing for working artists. In recognition of the unique needs of artists during emergencies, GPAC created the Emergency Fund for Artists to offset unforeseen costs by offering grants that are available on an as-needed basis. Applications are reviewed anonymously by an advisory committee of skilled professionals in emergency response, health, social services and the arts.
“The Emergency Fund for Artists is a program we hope will become a legacy of support for the artists we serve,” said Mitch Swain, CEO of the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council.
A native of New York, Zoob is a Pittsburgh-based acoustic and electric guitarist who draws his inspiration from singer-songwriters like Paul Simon. He plays with several bands including Wreck Loose, Mark Dignam and the House of Song, Paul Luc, Chet Vincent and Biirdwatcher, and his solo project, Zoob.
“If you have a community, open yourself up to it, you don't know what it could bring,” said Zoob of the Emergency Fund for Artists. “This couldn't have happened without the support of a group of people at GPAC who love and feel responsible for one another in the Pittsburgh community."
Funding for the Emergency Fund for Artists is provided by the Hillman Foundation. Learn more about the Emergency Fund for Artists on GPAC’s website. You can listen to Nathan Zoob’s music on Spotify or learn more about his projects on his website.
Photos provided courtesy of the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council and Nathan Zoob. Studio headshots by Dylan Rosgone, live performance photo by Long Hong. Please contact Kristen Wishon below to access photos.
Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council staff and Nathan Zoob are available for media interviews, upon request.