S.C. Arts Commission Announces Grantees of Emerging Artist Program

Seven burgeoning artists from South Carolina are set to be the beneficiaries of the South Carolina Arts Commission’s (SCAC) Emerging Artists program, through receiving both project-based grants and career mentorship. The SCAC’s Emerging Artists program focuses on assisting artists who are early on in their career development—within the first five years—regardless of their age.

The 2024 Grantees

This year, seven artists who are making a name for themselves in their respective artistic fields have been selected to receive funding between $1,200 to $1,800 through the program. They are as follows:

• Olivia Bonilla of North Charleston who specializes in visual art,
• Catherine Conrad of Duncan, a visual artist,
• Connie “Journey” Johnson of Orangeburg who focuses on music performance,
• Lucius Nelson of Darlington, a visual artist,
• Brad Silk of Taylors, a visual artist,
• Joseph Smolin of Greenville who is a multidisciplinary visual artist, and
• Olga Yukhno of Columbia, a visual artist.

Mentorship and Support

The financial support offered to these seven artists extends beyond just grant funding; the program also encompasses professional support and provides each artist with a dedicated mentor. The inclusive approach aims to cultivate their artistic proficiency, propel career growth, and deliver opportunities for collaboration.

Artist Development Director at SCAC, Tanisha N. Brown, who manages the Emerging Artists program, stated: “We are thrilled to grow the Emerging Artists program, now serving seven artists, each ready to expand their career. The South Carolina Arts Commission is happy to assist them with a grant providing full support of their projects, and I am honored to mentor them during the grant period.”

To showcase the diverse creative talents of these seven artists, an online gallery displaying their work has been set up and is currently live on SouthCarolinaArts.com.

Grants & Mentorship for FY25

The SCAC offers the Emerging Artist grant twice each fiscal year. Individual artists residing in South Carolina who meet the program’s criteria are encouraged to apply for the FY25 first-round of the Emerging Artist Grant. In line with this, the SCAC has organized a coaching session to be conducted via Zoom on February 22, 2024, aimed at providing guidance to potential applicants on the process of applying. All related details including the registration for the coaching session and complete grant guidelines, are available at the SCAC’s official website. The deadline for applying for the first round of FY25 funding and mentorship is April 16, 2024.

Progress through Art in South Carolina

This initiative by the SCAC not only boosts the confidence of emerging artists but also enriches the local culture and art landscape. By supporting these artists at a pivotal stage of their career, the program not only enables them to grow, but it also ensures that the vibrancy and diversity of South Carolina’s artistic community continue to flourish.