INDIVIDUAL ARTIST GRANTS PROGRAMS
Application deadlines are quickly approaching for the Individual Artist Grant Programs! 

FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM
The next deadline for the Individual Artist Fellowship Program is June 1, 2005 for Visual Arts (both 2 and 3 dimensional) and Media Arts only.  Artists applying to the other discipline categories will be eligible to apply for the Fellowship Program again in 2006.  The application forms and guidelines for the Individual Artist Fellowship Program are available to download from the Division's website at: http://www.florida-arts.org/grants/fellowship/guidelines.htm  If you are unable to download the guidelines, please contact the Division at (850) 245-6470 to request a hard copy. 

ARTIST ENHANCEMENT GRANTS
The second round of grant recipients of the Artist Enhancement Grant Award have been announced. 38 grants were awarded with a budget of $36,250.00. View the list of recommended artists and project descriptions.

The next application deadline for the Artist Enhancement Grant Program will be July 15, 2005 for activities between October 1, 2005 and September 30, 2006.  Starting with this July deadline, the program will be administered through the Division of Cultural Affairs office.  Questions about the program should be directed to Morgan Barr, (850) 245-6356.  Guidelines will be available for this program after May 15, 2005 on the Division's website. 

The Division would like to Thank Rem Cabrera at the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs for his hard work and dedication to the Artist Enhancement Grant Program during its first year.  Rem and his staff did a wonderful job with the program, the Division is very grateful for their efforts and commitment during this past year. 

The enthusiasm in the auditorium was palpable; voices were humming. Smiles and hugs and handshakes bounced around among the 67 folks who attended the first annual workshop for the new Florida Artists and Presenters Network on April 21 in Lake Worth. Funded through the National Endowment for the Arts Challenge America grant and advertised as an event for touring artists and presenters, the day was filled with activities, seminars, and networking. Jeri Goldstein, of The New Music Times, Inc., facilitated two sessions on marketing and negotiations. Artist participants received copies of her book for self-managed artists "How to Be Your Own Booking Agent" along with other helpful industry publications. Nikki Tucker, of the Southern Arts Federation, provided a seminar for presenters; Donna Wissinger, a Florida touring artist, entertained as the keynote lunch speaker, and Mark Alexander of the Duncan Theatre, Palm Beach Community College provided the two meals and the meeting space (with free parking!).

It was a packed day with lively team exercises and lots of ideas. Artists provided materials about their tours in a separate resource room, the weather outside was beautiful, and lots of positive comments were collected. The "networking" aspect of the workshop was highly successful and many participants look forward to engaging new contacts and sharing information. The hunger for such an event was evident in the display of anticipation, energy, and attentiveness. Many participants stayed late after the sessions ended and were eager to provide feedback, ask questions, and get additional information about Division programs.

For more information about FAPN, contact Gaylen Phillips at (850) 245-6482.

The Florida Arts Recognition Award: recognizes outstanding initiative, leadership, or excellence in supporting culture in Florida. Patrons, educators, or elected officials, or organizations such as arts groups or corporations who have demonstrated a significant contribution to the advancement of the arts, in any discipline or field, such as visual arts, performing arts, or arts education through either a lifetime commitment, or a recent major achievement, can receive the award. Applications are available online at http://www.florida-arts.org/programs/artsrecognition.htm

For more information, contact Sandy Shaughnessy at (850) 245-6480.

Several exciting new visual arts exhibits have recently opened at the Capitol Complex.

Xavier Cortada
Mangroves (on Green)
48" x 36"
acrylic on canvas
2004

XAVIER CORTADA
MANGROVES

“Mangroves,” an exhibition of paintings and works on paper by Miami artist Xavier Cortada is on display in the Capitol’s 22nd Floor Gallery through June 3, 2005.

Xavier Cortada's Cuban roots are immediately evident in his tropical palette and expressive style. Like many other Florida artists, Cortada has been drawn to the beauty of South Florida's nature since he was a young child. "Nature can transport us, not just to another place, but to another time. It reminds us of what was here before all the concrete was poured," says Cortada... READ MORE

PATRICIA ROTTINO CUMMINS
BISCAYNE BOTANICALS AT THE CAPITOL

An exhibition of oil paintings entitled “Biscayne Botanicals at the Capitol” by Miami artist Patricia Rottino Cummins will be on display in the Cabinet Meeting Room through July 8, 2005. 

In her own expressive and vibrant style, Cummins has created a unique series of oil paintings depicting the magnificent, yet fragile and often unnoticed, plant life commonly found in Biscayne National Park. With over 95% of its 172,000 acres covered in water, the park is home to a wide range of plant species which Cummins eagerly captures in her bold and dramatic works. "My goal as an artist and a painter is to "arrest motion," and communicate the beauty found in nature," states Cummins. "To make my viewers look again at what we normally take for granted is what I find most important in my work." ... READ MORE

Patricia Rottino Cummins
Black Mangroves at Adams Key
oil on canvas
48" x 36"

FERDIE PACHECO
CHAMPIONS

An exhibition of paintings by Ferdie Pacheco entitled “Champions” will be on display in the Old Capitol Gallery through July 7, 2005. This exhibit is sponsored by the Florida Center for Creative Aging, a program of the University of South Florida. 

"Champions," Pacheco's retrospective of his own life in painting, represents a wide array of styles and subject matter. From his muralist portrayals of Ybor City during the jazz age and the great depression to his series of famous faces painted with his inventive fauvist style, Pacheco's work is as colorful as his life. Utilizing rich colors and bold expressive brushstrokes, he has produced an extraordinary body of imaginative works which can best be described as abstract conceptions of his own rich life experiences... READ MORE

Many more opportunities for individual artists can be found on the Division's website at http://www.florida-arts.org/jobs/individual.htm

The Maine Arts Commission seeks an Arts & Humanities Associate (0822)/Community Relations & Public Information Associate
Pay Grade: Range 24 $33,196.80-$45,291.20 yearly; Value of State paid heath and dental Insurance: $265.82 Bi-weekly; Value of State's share of employee's retirement: 16.07% of pay

Maine Arts Commission seeks a Community Relations & Public Information Associate to plan and carry out a program to serve the Community Relations, Public Information needs of the agency and its constituents. The associate will work closely with agency staff, Maine Arts Commission members and constituents to develop appropriate means to package and disseminate information in a variety of formats. The successful applicant will have experience in media relations, community relations and publications including writing, editing and proof-reading; will have a background in one or more arts disciplines; and will make a commitment to thoroughly understanding the mission, goals and programs of the Maine Arts Commission.

This is a full-time position at the Maine Arts Commission office in Augusta and requires a willingness to travel state-wide. The position is an associate position at Range 24 with full state benefits (benefits description can be mailed or emailed to applicants).

Responsibilities:

• Establish working relationships with the media (television, radio, and print media such as newspapers and magazines); free-lance writers; and staff at arts organizations
  Maintain a current media list;
• Write and disseminate press releases;
• Generate news coverage of agency and state-wide arts events;
• Advise on information media, edit publications, work with graphic designers;
• Arrange for visual documentation of agency programs, solicit photographs; manage media files;
• Maintain all press and media relations information on MaineArts.com;
• Develop the use of email, listserves, and electronic bulletin boards as information media;
• Attend Maine Arts Commission committees and program meetings and events;
  Attend and speak at public events;
• Monitor recognition from grantees and award recipients;
• Oversee any media arts projects as needed;
• Carry out special projects as assigned.

Applicants should send a cover letter, résumé, writing samples, three references, direct hire application and answers to the supplemental questions (available upon request by mail or email) by May 18, 2005 (postmark deadline) to: Gail Waddell, Maine Arts Commission, 193 State Street, 25 SHS, Augusta, ME 04333-0025, gail.waddell@maine.gov. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. The Maine Arts Commission is a state agency and Equal Opportunity Employer.

Broward County Cultural Affairs seeks an Arts Management Specialist III - Public Art and Design Program Manager
Closing Date: 5/6/2005
Apply online at www.broward.org/careers

Candidates with visual art education and visual art work experience, including public art administration, are highly desired.

NATURE OF WORK: This is advanced professional and supervisory arts management work in directing or coordinating specifically assigned programs or projects in the Cultural Affairs Division. Employees in this class are responsible for planning, organizing, and directing complex specialized projects or programs of the Cultural Affairs Division. Work involves considerable independent interaction with community based organizations, the public, the School Board, municipalities, artists, arts organizations, and local, state, and federal arts agencies. Duties include grant and contract development, management, and monitoring. Employees are expected to coordinate and manage operations with independence. Supervision is exercised over subordinate staff and volunteers. Work is reviewed through conferences, reports, and program achievement.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: This classification is distinguished from Arts Management Specialist II by the complexity of work performed, additional supervisory responsibilities and the greater experience requirements.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS Coordinates and manages activities relating to a variety of arts programs and projects; develops and implements changes in operating policies and procedures. Manages at least one major Cultural Affairs program; coordinates the artist selection process; negotiates and administers agreements. Develops and oversees program concepts and work priorities for divisional programs. Provides recommendations to selection panels, committees, and agencies on types of art, artists, and cultural organizations. Manages numerous contracted arts services; coordinates training workshops, educational programs, residencies and distribution of Information. Initiates and maintains community contacts with local, state, and federal arts organizations/agencies; attends conferences and public and professional meetings. Prepares and maintains reports, files, and documents related to assigned projects and programs. Supervises subordinate staff and volunteers. Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGE ABILITIES AND SKILLS: Thorough knowledge of arts management principles, practices, and techniques. Thorough knowledge of arts education programs, visual and design arts programs. Thorough knowledge of the functions and operations of a local arts agency including not-for-profit agencies. Thorough knowledge of contract and grant administration. Thorough knowledge of artist services, technical training, and grant programs. Considerable knowledge of the principles of management, organization, and administration. Considerable knowledge of standard practices in the fields of local government, budgeting, and accounting. Ability to develop and coordinate various arts projects and programs. Ability to apply arts management knowledge to a variety of programs and projects. Ability to utilize various computer programs in administration and management of arts programs and projects. Ability to interact with a variety of boards, committees, panels, artists, and community based organizations. Ability to analyze administrative problems and make sound recommendations for their solution. Ability to plan, organize, and supervise the work of subordinate staff and volunteers. Ability to carry out complex oral and written instructions. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Ability to serve the public and fellow employees with honesty and integrity in full accord with the letter and spirit of Broward County's Ethics and Conflict of Interest policies. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the general public, co-workers, elected and appointed officials, and members of diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds regardless of race, religion, age, sex, disability, political affiliation or sexual orientation.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in the arts, public or business administration or field related to area of assignment; six (6) years experience in arts management, including four (4) years experience in the supervisory aspects of the work; or any equivalent combination of relevant training and experience.

Dunedin Fine Art Center Seeks Director of Communications
Responsibilities include public relations, media, membership, and community outreach. Duties include but not limited to writing for newsletter, website management, class schedules, exhibit invitations and all aspects of Gallery coordination in conjunction with Center staff. A well-organized team player, with a graphic design and/or visual arts background preferred, excellent writing skills required. Experience with Adobe Creative Suite. Requirements include college degree and three years experience. Resume, cover letter, salary requirements and three references to: Email, fax or mail: info@dfac.org; (F) 727-298-3326, 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin, FL. 34698.

The Arts Council in Stuart, FL seeks a Special Events Coordinator
Job Summary: The Special Events Coordinator has primary responsibility for community event planning and community outreach, including media promotions and marketing. Key Responsibilities: Coordinate and manage community and fund raising events including, ArtsFest (a two-day arts, crafts and music festival), Lunch Box Concert series, Art is Everywhere Tour, mARTies Awards and other events that foster a increased public awareness of the Arts Council. Assist Executive Director to encourage businesses and community leaders to increase membership and fundraising opportunities. Nurture relationships with the media to increase the visibility of the Arts Council. Requirements: 2- 5 years of experience in committee and/or volunteer management, sponsorship recruitment/solicitation, and preparation of annual budgets required. A Bachelors Degree in management or the arts is preferred. Associates Degree required. Must be highly organized and demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of the arts community and media contacts is highly desirable. Computer literacy is a must. Send resumes to nturrell@MartinArts.org or c/o The Arts Council, 80 E Ocean Boulevard, Stuart, Florida 34994. Website: www.MartinArts.org.