Those with a creative vision may want to think about applying for these grants that are being offered by the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council.

As a way of encouraging the development of original artistic work, SEMAC is offering two grants for individual artists. Proposals will be accepted from individuals who are 18 or older and are full-time residents of the SEMAC region, and no matching funds are required.

SEMAC is a nonprofit arts agency that’s designated by the State of Minnesota Arts Board as the regional arts council for the eleven southeastern Minnesota counties.

All proposed projects must start no earlier than Sept. 1, 2018, and must be completed within the year, culminating with a capstone event that’s accessible and open to the public. Online applications will be made available throughout June with an online submission deadline of 11:59 p.m. on July 1, 2018.

This activity is made possible by Minnesota voters through grants from the Minnesota State Arts Board thanks to legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

The two grants are as follows:

Advancing Artist Grants

This grant provides about $5,000 in financial support to allow artists to further their work. It’s intended to recognize, reward and encourage outstanding individual artists in the region.

An artist at this stage has created an independent body of work over several years and has received regional or statewide recognition of their work.

Artists at this stage are usually, but not always, committed to making a living as an artist, whether they are doing so or not. They may experiencing difficulty of balance of producing art and marketing their art. The usually have an audience and show their art locally, regionally and maybe nationally.

Emerging Artists Grants

This grant provides $2,500 in financial support artists who have some evidence of achievement but don’t have a substantial record of accomplishment. The term “emerging” doesn’t refer to the artist’s stylistic evolution, but to his or her accomplishments and recognition. They’re usually developing their talents and may have been noticed locally. Usually remains in this category for their entire artistic lives.

For more information about the grant application process, eligibility or grant writing assistance, contact SEMAC at 2778 D. Commerce Dr. NW, Rochester, Minnesota 55901 or call 507-281-4848. More details can be found on the website at www.semac.org.