Program/Grant: GIG Fund

99 Midwestern organizations have received a total of $380,000 through the 2024-25 GIG Fund, a grant program from Arts Midwest. These awards will help organizations present artists and educational events in their community.

San Francisco based, Indian classical musician Alam Khan will perform a solo concert at South Asia Institute. Alam will also lead an "Open Orchestra" performance featuring all Chicago based musicians who will attend several Indian classical music workshops and open rehearsals with Alam Khan. The community based "Open Orchestra" performance will be open to all and free to the public.

The project is SEISO’s Artist in Residence, who will spend two weeks teaching and performing in schools and give presentations and recitals in communities in Southeast Iowa. The Artist will also perform as soloist on our Masterworks Series 3 concerts.

Southern Indiana Taiko will bring world renowned professional taiko drummers Tiffany Tamaribuchi and Eddie Yates to rural Columbus, Indiana to conduct a three day workshop for Southern Indiana Taiko performers and students. The workshop will focus on ergonomically correct taiko techniques and both artists will be featured in an open to the public community performance.

Native American dancer and choreographer Nedallas Hammill joins the 2025 (W)here in the World Dance Festival as a featured performer and speaker.

Nigerian-American singer-songwriter Rocky Peter brings his inspiring story and beautiful musicianship to Fairfield Arts & Convention Center and the rural community of Jefferson County, IA.

Three Artists of SPACE, a playwright, movement artist and director intend to work with the 50 year old Noble County Community Theater to conduct workshops and create a devised performance that addresses a local conflict/concern. The workshops will culminate in a final performance and talk back session. Workshop participants will gain the tools to create new community-centered work in the future.

Rooted in Rhythm is a dance performance project that explores how traditional West African dance styles have influenced contemporary Black dance in Detroit, especially the Jit. It features performances and training from artists, highlighting the cultural connections and shared rhythms between dance disciplines.

Lubeznik Center for the Arts (LCA) will provide three compelling hands-on workshops. A Long Walk Home, a national art organization that empowers young people to end violence against girls & women, will lead the creation of a Black Girlhood Altar. The other, with Chicago-based artist & educator Rhonda Wheatley, will help participants recognize, strengthen, & trust their intuitive abilities.

MOHAC will bring local artists to a residential youth psychiatric facility, providing activities designed to foster creativity, self-expression, and emotional healing for at-risk youth. This initiative will enhance the therapeutic environment, promote mental well-being, and offer a constructive outlet for the residents. A public art exhibit in the Matthews gallery will showcase some of their work.