Submitted by Jennifer J.H. Pierce
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — ArtServe’s annual programming and exhibits will be getting additional support thanks to a grant from The Community Foundation of Broward. The funds will help the Fort Lauderdale arts incubator expand community outreach in Broward County and spread the word to Broward artists and art lovers about how they can participate with ArtServe’s many programs.
“Our classes, quarterly exhibits and other activities are so popular, it’s very clear there are still so many creative people we can reach,” ArtServe CEO Jason Hughes said. “These are folks who dream of exhibiting, performing, teaching or simply enjoying art and never knew that, thanks to ArtServe, you can do all of those things right here in your own hometown!”
Support for ArtServe’s grant was provided by the following Funds at The Community Foundation of Broward:
- Ruth H. Brown Fund for the Arts
- Ron Castell Memorial Fund
- Everett H. Metcalf, Jr. Unrestricted Fund
- The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation Broward Commu-nity Fund
ArtServe, which holds four themed exhibits a year, including a photography exhibit, is hopeful the expanded outreach will encourage more artists to submit their work to be featured in these events.
“In the art world, getting your work seen by as many people as possible is often a key component of future success,” Hughes said. “ArtServe offers a space where everyday people of every imaginable creative talent can get that coveted visibility and fulfill their dreams. Often, they even launch careers.”
The Community Founda-tion of Broward has identified art and culture as a key core of thriving communities and a vital means of connecting people to their neighbors and each other. Importantly, Americans for the Arts Florida notes that, as of March 16, 2022, art and culture in Florida is a significant industry contributing to economic growth and jobs for residents, representing 2.9% of the state’s GDP.
Too many residents remain cut off from the power of art and culture programs that can unite, inspire and revitalize our community, The Community Foundation of Broward explains.
“We can proudly say that ArtServe’s mission directly aligns with The Community Foundation’s goals, which include igniting creativity, building community pride and identity, engaging all residents, transcending differences and breaking down barriers, inspiring and fostering dialogue and interaction, celebrating our rich, diverse cultures and history, and supporting our cultural treasures,” Hughes said.
ArtServe inspires, supports and advances its diverse members, artists and community by promoting artistic development, education and prosperity through the exploration and presentation of the visual and performing art.
