The New West Arts Development Fund aims to increase the inclusion and appreciation of promising artists and performers.
Small projects can have a big impact on the community. Emerging artists across all artistic and cultural disciplines living in New Westminster who have an interest in building an arts career and/or working with the community in an arts or culture-based capacity are invited to apply for an Art New West Development Fund Microgrant.
Have an idea for a community art project?
- Arts Development Fund Micro Grants are available for projects that are free, open to the public and benefit the community of New Westminster.
- Successful applications will demonstrate that the project supports community engagement, representation and cultural respect, encourages cultural diversity and/or enhances underserved communities, neighbourhoods or populations of New Westminster.
Let us help you bring community together through art!
Who Can Apply
Emerging artists who are residents of New Westminster. Emerging artists can be of any age in any artistic or cultural discipline (e.g. community arts, dance, disability arts, Indigenous arts or culture, interdisciplinary, literary, media, multidisciplinary, music, textile/fibre art, theatre, visual arts).
Registered organizations and businesses are not eligible to apply.
An emerging artist is defined as:
- In the early stages of their artistic journey, usually within the few first years of pursuing their art
- Pursuing, or has specialised training in arts and culture (university graduation or equivalent, self-training, or training in a culturally-specific tradition)
- Has a small history of presentation, production, or publication
- Looking for support and resources to build confidence in their practice
- Committed to devoting more time to artistic activity, when possible financially
- Self-identifies as emerging
- This definition has been inspired by a number of sources, including CARFAC BC
More Than Just Funding
Arts New West will support you as you plan your project idea.
- Space to work and plan at the Gallery at Queen’s Park (based on availability)
- Access to sound equipment and other tech needs
- Marketing and promotional support (2 – 5 social media posts about you and your project, one press release and feature in the Arts New West Newsletter)
- Expert advice and encouragement (2 – 5 hours of admin support)
- Connections to potential community partners
All of these additional support tools are based on availability and a maximum number of Arts New West Administration hours (5 – 10 hours per project)
2024 Recipients Indigenous mural painting at River Market
recipients
Claire Shannon-Akiwenzie (Anishinaabe/Irish) is a multidisciplinary artist, educator and hand drummer/singer.
Ryan is a Coast Salish artist and carver from Snuneymuxw First Nation.
Immerse yourself in an enchanting evening of musical storytelling as Cheska Henson takes the stage at Centennial Lodge in Queen's on May 15 at 7pm.
My name is Cheska Henson and I’m a 16 year old singer-songwriter.
