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CONGRATULATIONS IACA CYCLE #30
MINI-GRANT RECIPIENT, JUSTIN BELL!
Click here to see IACA's other Cycle #30
mini-grant recipient, Cecilia Smith.
The following are excerpts from Bell's grant proposal:
I am in training as an operatic tenor, and I am beginning graduate school this semester at the prestigious Manhattan School of Music. As a native Mississippian, having this opportunity is a dream to me, since I believe music is a universal language that can both inspire and enable others. Recently, I self-produced a solo concert in my hometown, Jackson, MS, to bring gratitude and hope. As an operatic singer, I am tasked with singing in four different languages and unamplified, conveying stories to audiences of all backgrounds.
In addition to my work as a performer, I have had the opportunity to impact communities and my colleagues as an arts administrator and producer. For the past couple of years, I have worked with The Denyce Graves Foundation, increasing exposure and access to resources for other students in the classical music industry. In my work as Assistant Public Relations and Marketing Manager at Classical Singer Magazine, I have been instrumental in bringing quality teaching to singers' homes of all financial backgrounds, as I have managed our Online Masterclass Series. As a Producer, I have produced the series "Cooking with Denyce," with combines a love of food, opera, and conversation to not only inspire cooking and performing in homes but also to begin dialogue on pivotal issues.
All of these skills relate to my craft, as I use my voice both onstage and off. I am thankful to be able to continue honing my craft to be an instrument of peace.
This grant would be useful in so many ways to support my artistry. As a graduate student now living in one of the most expensive and busy cities in the country, these funds will be helpful in transportation costs and associated education costs (voice lessons, coaching, travel to auditions). I also plan to edit and release my recent solo concert online to share with and inspire those who were not there in-person.
You may be the next grant winner! Click here to apply.
There is no specific type of artist that we focus on or primarily support. Creative expression comes in a wide variety of artistic disciplines and genres. We are looking for passion and excellence in your craft. Tell us why your work is important to you and how you hope it will impact others.
Where Eagles Soar (Isaiah 40:31)
Photo Copyright © Justin Bell
Integrity: Arts & Culture Association is honored to approve Bell's funding request and we wish him continued success in his creative endeavors.
