In the heart of Seattle’s offbeat, trendy Capitol Hill neighborhood, Artist Trust lies in wait to help artists of all disciplines plan their careers and find outlets for their work. Dedicated to “supporting Washington State artists working in all creative disciplines,” the Artist Trust helps creative types find grants, awards, and residencies around the world for visual artists, musicians, writers, poets, dancers, choreographers, and more.
Artist Trust works hard to raise funds for three primary reasons: to “give financial grants to individual artists working in the visual, performing, media, literary, and interdisciplinary arts,” to serve as a professional information resource for artists,” and to “provide recognition and support for the contributions artists make to the lives of people of Washington State.” Essentially, Artist Trust seeks to support and empower local artists across all disciplines, both financially and by amplifying their work, as well as to honor the ways in which they enrich the communities they are a part of.
Supported by a board, regional ambassadors, volunteers, a small staff, and generous donations, Artist Trust provides access to information on networking, promotion, exhibitions, and professional development. Two of their recurring events—the EDGE Professional Development Training for Visual Artists and the “I Am An Artist” Professional Development Workshop—use presentations, panel discussions, and assignments to help artists begin—or refresh—their careers.
The importance of organizations like Artist Trust is not to be underestimated, according to artists who have received its support. Visual artist and recipient of several fellowships as well as the 2011 Arts Innovator Special Recognition Award, Gary Hill credits much of his success to support provided by the Artist Trust, stating that it was “a significant catalyst enabling me to thrive as an artist, and there is no doubt it will continue to do the same for others.”
Hill and other recipients of Artist Trust’s support and educational tools stress the importance of recognition and validation for an artist’s career. “It’s a brilliant, simple, incredible idea that Artist Trust exists solely to support artists—it’s a gem,” says choreographer Pat Graney, Artist Trust Arts Innovator Award and GAP Recipient.
In a world where fellowships and other kinds of financial and educational support for artists is rapidly shrinking, groups such as Artist Trust carry on the tradition of community engagement in art of all kinds.
Learn more about Artist Trust by visiting artisttrust.org.