2020 TopArts Grants

Just about two weeks ago, the grant review panel met to decide which applicants would be chosen to receive a portion of the $30,000 that ArtsConnect is tasked with allocating each year to various art-related programs all across Topeka.

For the first time, we held grant workshops - which were attended by more than 80 people. We received a total of 39 applications and they were inspiring. Every kind of project imaginable. Nearly $150,000 was requested - representing total project budgets of nearly $1.8 million dollars. These projects represent an opportunity to reach every single person in Topeka at least one time with an art experience.

The grants were written at the beginning of the year and it was refreshing to read them - not only do they represent a lot of amazing creative programming, but not a single one of them mentions the place in which we currently find ourselves.

Every year, it’s a challenge. This year was an extra challenge. Grant workshops meant that the quality of applications was considerably increased compared to last year and had an incredibly thoughtful selection committee to work through these funding decisions. We’ll be announcing the grantees very soon and so stay tuned!

Robert Tapley Bustamante completes the sunflower mural located between 9th & 10th streets on Quincy. This project was partially funded through the TopArts Grant Program.