Main Street Community Foundation (MSCF) is now accepting applications for grants from the Louise Lauretano DeMars Love of Art Fund to benefit individual artists. Grant applications are due October 28th.

Applications will be considered from working artists in fine arts, graphic arts, and performing arts (music, dance, theater) fields who reside in Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington, or Wolcott. Grant requests should be for projects or initiatives that help further the artist’s creativity, exploration of their talent, or expansion of their learning. Guidelines and eligibility criteria are available at mainstreetfoundation.org/apply-for-grant. Applicants must contact Whitney Shufelt, Director of Grants & Programs, or Alicia Krar, Grants Manager, at the Foundation’s office at least one week prior to the application deadline to discuss eligibility and receive instructions to apply.

MSCF has awarded $23,025 to five established, local artists since its first grant cycle in 2024. Last year, three individuals received grants to support their professional education, further their practice, and to finalize production of and marketing for their work.

The Louise Lauretano DeMars Love of Art Fund at Main Street Community Foundation was established by bequest upon Louise’s passing in 2023. Louise was a well-known leader in the Bristol community; she had a personality that was larger than life, was talented and passionate about the arts, and was a beloved mentor. Louise’s contributions to the museum industry, as well as the arts and culture community, were many and varied. Most notable in the greater Bristol community was her 28-year tenure as the Executive Director of The Carousel Museum which established the museum as a national tourist destination. Louise was a valued member of many organizations and associations over the course of her career in the museum industry and arts community, and this Fund continues her joy and passion for art while inspiring and supporting established artists.