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Effective January 1: Masks are Optional in VisArts’ Classrooms and Studios
ROCKVILLE, Md., September 5, 2024 – VisArts is thrilled to announce it has been awarded a two-year, $300,000 grant from the Windgate Foundation to augment its Center for Craft Studies initiative. This generous funding will significantly enhance VisArts’ commitment to celebrate and advance craft arts throughout the region.
The Windgate Foundation’s support for this program over the past two years has been pivotal in integrating craft into various VisArts programs, with the launch of an inaugural Craft Arts Residency, expansion of its educational offerings to include a broader array of craft-related courses, and enrichment of its summer camps with new textile and printmaking projects. Craft remains a strong focus of VisArts’ galleries and exhibition programs.
Continued support from the Foundation will allow VisArts to significantly broaden the scope and impact of the Center for Craft Studies. Funding will enable the expansion of programs designed to support artists at all levels, from emerging talents to established professionals.
This includes refinement of the Certificate Program in Mastery in Craft and Creative Industries, which will offer more flexible and diverse learning opportunities; introduction of a new Craft Apprenticeship Program, which will provide valuable technical and teaching experiences; continuation of Craft Art Residencies, which will extended support to resident artists, including studio space, teaching opportunities, and exhibition opportunities; and introduction of a new series of meetups called Craft + Conversation, which are designed to foster connections with craft experts and collectors as they explore contemporary craft genres in an intimate setting.
Robert Devers, Center for Craft Studies Coordinator and a key figure in founding the Center, shares: “Receiving this grant from the Windgate Foundation is a game-changer. It validates the hard work we’ve put into developing and launching the program and will allow us to elevate our craft offerings, expand our reach, and provide even more opportunities for artists and craft enthusiasts. We’re excited to continue growing and evolving our programs with this support.”
Alice Nappy, Executive Director of VisArts, adds: “We’re grateful to the Windgate Foundation for their ongoing commitment. Their support is transforming VisArts’ ability to offer outstanding craft programs and opportunities. We’re excited to build on the innovations and strong foundation we’ve established.”
