The regional artist program awards grants to local emerging and professional artists in all disciplines who are in need of financial support to pursue projects beneficial to their development as professional artists.

Previously funded projects have included attendance at professional development workshops and conferences, purchase of art equipment to aid in the production of artwork, production of new works and production of promotional materials, such as a portfolio or demo tape.

Grants are made possible through a five-county partnership including:

Franklin Vance Warren Wake and Johnston - in collaboration with the North Carolina Arts Council

Application forms will be available mid-July, and are due mid- September.

To be eligible, an artist must be at least 18 years of age, have lived in the five county region for at least one year and not be currently enrolled in a degree program. Additional requirements and stipulations are explained in the application guidelines.

Since Regional Artist Project Grants are competitive, a workshop is held each July to assist artists in preparing for the grant application process. This year a workshop will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2009, at 7:00 pm in the conference room of the Johnston County Arts Council, 231 East Second St., Clayton.

If you have questions about the Regional Artist Project Grant Program or would like more information on the workshop, please contact the Johnston County Arts Council at 919/553-1930. Applicants are strongly encouraged to seek assistance with their applications.