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County Executive McCoy, County Legislature and the Advance Albany County Alliance Announce Arts & Culture Grant Funding Awards

Over $500,000 to be distributed for six local projects

Post Date:12/18/2024 3:40 pm

Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy, County Legislature Chairwoman Joanne Cunningham and the Advance Albany County Alliance (AACA) announced the award of $502,650 in grant funding through the AACA Cultural and Arts Grant Program. This initiative aims to support Albany County’s economic growth, cultural development, and community engagement by fostering  initiatives that enhance the county’s vibrant arts and cultural landscape. This is the first round of funding, out of a total $1.25 million that has been dedicated to this effort in Albany County’s budget to date.

“Arts and culture are not a luxury; rather, they are fundamental to our collective identity. By investing in these organizations, we are not only supporting the talented artists and cultural organizations in our community, but also driving economic growth, tourism, and educational opportunities for our residents. Together, we are building an environment where everyone has the opportunity to engage in the arts,” said Albany County Executive McCoy.

“Today's announcement recognizes the ongoing commitment of the Albany County Legislature and County Executive Dan McCoy to cultural development and economic growth. The impact of this funding will not only benefit the local community groups, cultural centers, and nonprofits receiving this money, but also our County residents who will have the opportunity to experience so many different expressions of artistic excellence, and this is just the beginning. Additional rounds of funding will be available in 2025, providing more opportunities to continue this investment,” said Albany County Legislature Chairwoman Joanne Cunningham.

“Arts and culture have always been essential in reflecting the values, history, and diversity of society. When we invest in arts and culture, we are investing in the richness of our shared experience. Through these grants, we can ensure that underrepresented communities have the platform to share their stories, traditions, and perspectives. I'm proud of this investment in our local artists and thank all of the organizations who applied,” said Albany County Legislature Deputy Chairwoman Wanda Willingham.

Culture & Arts Grant Funding Award Recipients:

  • Barbara Howard - $25,000
    • Story Time: An interactive literacy enrichment program led by teacher-artist Barbara Howard, combining storytelling, music, and arts activities to inspire a love of reading and celebrate diverse narratives, particularly those by and about the BIPOC community.
  • Historic Cherry Hill - $42,650
    • The World of James Knapp: The "World of James Knapp" project will shift Cherry Hill’s interpretive focus to honor the life of James Knapp, a Black resident of the historic site, through a multi-site exhibition, original artwork, and community programs that highlight his identity and contributions.
  • Albany Waterway Inc.- $85,000
    • Historic Lock 1 Project:  Albany Waterway Inc. requests a grant of $85,000 from AACA to pay for the architectural firm’s site development study, due in late-2025. The funding will pay for an online video, a public presentation, and comprehensive report available in PDF format
  • Alice Moore Black Arts & Cultural Center - $100,000
    • Urban Arts Program: A yearlong, multi-disciplinary initiative focused on dance, filmmaking, photography, theater, and literature, using the lens of the African diaspora to provide artistic residencies, educational workshops, and community engagement opportunities for all ages, with the goal of fostering cultural connections and growing Albany County into a vibrant, diverse arts hub.
  • Albany Symphony Orchestra - $100,000
    • Reflecting the Diversity of Albany Through Music: The "Reflecting the Diversity of Albany Through Music" project will showcase diverse programming by the Albany Symphony, featuring a wide range of composers and musicians, and enhance community engagement through educational initiatives and accessible performances, including collaborations with local artists and cultural institutions.
  • Albany Institute of History & Art - $150,000
    • Bridge to the Future Project: The Bridge to the Future project at the Albany Institute aims to revitalize the museum post-pandemic by enhancing its communications, expanding community engagement, and strengthening its curatorial and educational programming with key new staff and resources to attract diverse audiences and support long-term growth.

Applications were reviewed and evaluated by the AACA Arts & Culture Advisory

Council. This represents the first round of funding through the AACA Cultural and Arts Grant Program. Additional awards will be announced in the coming months.

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