Main Street Community Foundation is opening the inaugural cycle of the Louise Lauretano DeMars Love of Art Fund on October 1, 2024

“We are excited to open the inaugural cycle of the Louise Lauretano DeMars Love of Art Fund” stated Susan D. Sadecki, President & CEO of Main Street Community Foundation. “In speaking with Louise prior to her death in early 2023, it was clear she wanted to assist artists with furthering their creativity, exploring their talent, and expanding their learning and we are honored to begin accepting applications.”

The grant cycle will be open from October 1, 2024 through October 25, 2024 and established artists with an active art practice residing, for a minimum of two years, in Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington, or Wolcott are invited to apply. Applications are available on the Main Street Community Foundation website.

“The people who establish funds at our Foundation are very special and Louise Lauretano DeMars is no exception,” continued Sadecki. “She was a trailblazer in our community and always had an eye for the beauty of art. As curator of many award-winning exhibits in museums across Connecticut, such as the Peabody Museum of Natural History and the Carousel Museum, Louise was always enriching the lives of everyone around her. The over $1 million bequest she left for our Foundation to steward shows her love and continued desire to promote art through support for individual artists in the Bristol-area.”

Initial awards will range from $1,000 to $5,000 with one or more grants awarded in this inaugural year. Approved uses of the funds may include: the purchase of materials, equipment or supplies; compensation for time spent developing a project or creating art; hiring others related to the project; attending workshops, conferences, residencies etc; performance or touring costs; travel and related costs relevant to proposal; rental of work/studio space; production costs such as costumes, props, lighting, or sound systems; or other items necessary for development as an artist.

“Louise was a visionary and strong advocate for the arts around our state and I know she would love to see the growing arts culture and community in our region. With the establishment of this permanent endowment, Main Street Community Foundation will continue Louise’s legacy and honor the contributions she made throughout our state,” concluded Sadecki.

The award notifications for this grant cycle are expected by November 30, 2024.