New Art Grants Totaling $1.6 Million Awarded By Mayor's Office

HOUSTON, TX -- The Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA) announced $1.6 million in grants going toward 109 artists and 32 arts and cultural nonprofits for public exhibitions, performances and festivals in 2019. The grants, which are awarded through the Houston Arts Alliance, are funded through a portion of the city's hotel occupancy tax dedicated to the arts, the city said in a news release.

“The strength of Houston’s creative economy includes artisans, artists, creative workers and festivals of every kind that uplift and invite the sharing of cultural traditions,” Mayor Sylvester Turner said in the release. “Our artists and festivals showcase Houston’s cultural diversity, and it is no surprise that Houston is recognized in numerous national rankings as a premier destination to visit.”

The grants are awarded via three new grant programs: Support for Artist and Creative Individuals, Let Creativity Happen and Festival. These new programs followed a year-long redesign of grants offered through Houston Arts Alliance, the news release said.

Photo via the City of Houston