PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage announced awards totaling $10.2 million to support local organizations and artists. This funding includes $3.5 million aimed at fortifying some of the city’s most prominent institutions and $1 million in unrestricted fellowships to 12 local artists.
A notable addition this year is the Evolving Futures awards, designed to propel the region’s cultural sector toward sustainability and innovation post-pandemic. These grants will assist organizations like The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, Asian Arts Initiative, and Opera Philadelphia in adopting strategic adaptations for long-term success.
Paula Marincola, executive director of The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage, stated, “We’re delighted to continue our long-standing support for individual artists and creative projects as well as to introduce the Evolving Futures grants this year. We are particularly gratified to offer important risk capital to address crucial operational issues through this new funding platform while also supporting vibrant programs for many different audiences and communities.”
Additionally, 12 artists have been awarded Pew Fellowships in the Arts, each receiving $85,000. This year’s fellows, who work across performance, music, visual arts, and film, will also benefit from professional development resources.
Donna Frisby-Greenwood, of The Pew Charitable Trusts, emphasized the importance of this initiative, saying, “The Pew Charitable Trusts is extremely pleased to support The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage in its commitment to ensuring a thriving cultural sector that represents and celebrates diverse perspectives. We look forward to seeing how these grantees use their exceptional creativity to spark important social conversations—and produce accessible works of art for Philadelphia-area residents and visitors to enjoy.”
The Center is also supporting 18 local arts and heritage organizations in their efforts to present engaging public events and programs. Projects will delve into themes of American democracy, Black culture, and environmental concerns. For instance, the Association for Public Art will unveil a new sculpture by Paul Ramírez Jonas in Independence National Historical Park, while the Museum of the American Revolution will explore the global impact of the Declaration of Independence.
In spotlighting Black culture, BalletX will create a hip-hop ballet inspired by “Lord of the Flies,” and the Philadelphia Museum of Art will explore Ghanaian artist El Anatsui’s work. Environmental themes will be highlighted by The Crossing’s new choral work on climate change and Nichole Canuso Dance Company’s performance inspired by tidal movements.
These initiatives highlight The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage’s efforts to foster a rich, diverse, and innovative cultural landscape in Philadelphia, ensuring that the arts remain a vital and vibrant part of community life. For a full list of grantees and their projects, visit the Pew Center’s website.
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