There are few places in America as rich in arts and culture as Massachusetts, and artists are at the center of this vibrant creative life. Through color, form, language, sound, and movement, artists help interpret our past, understand the present, and envision our future. Their work breaks down barriers and helps us appreciate what it means to be human.

MCC is committed to helping Massachusetts artists thrive. In a time when many sources of direct grant support for individual artists have been reduced or eliminated, the Massachusetts Cultural Council is proud to be one of the few state arts agencies in the county to provide unrestricted funding for artists.

MCC's Artist Fellowships provide direct support to Massachusetts artists across a range of disciplines, to recognize exceptional work and to promote the further development of their talents. These highly competitive awards provide artists recognition and affirmation among their peers and the public. They catalyze crucial artistic advancement and pave the way for creative innovation of enduring cultural value. Read about some of the most prominent fellows in the program's history.

MCC publicizes its artist awards through the Gallery@MCC, an online showcase of finalists and winners, and on the ArtSake blog. For information on applying for an Artist Fellowship, please see the application instructions.

In addition to fellowships, MCC supports artists through its other funding programs and services. Grants through MCC's Traditional Arts Apprenticeships, Local Cultural Council, Cultural Investment Portfolio, YouthReach, Creative Schools, and Adams Arts programs all help provide employment for thousands of artists throughout the state.

MCC is involved in several statewide initiatives for artists, including: ArtistLink, an effort to help artists, real estate developers, and communities develop work and living space for artists across Massachusetts; and MatchBook.org, a web site dedicated to helping New England's performing artists get increased visibility and employment.

For more information on MCC's work with artists, please contact a member of our Artists Department.

Images (top-bottom): Rachel Perry Welty, Spam series: you may already be a winner (Henrietta, June 11, 2007 9:24:24 AM EDT) (2008), Courtesy Barbara Krakow Gallery (Boston) and Yancey Richardson Gallery (New York), 151 x 14 x 2 inches; John O’Hearn, Albuquerque Social Club (2006), oil and paper on canvas, 18" x 31"

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