Art education has been dwindling across the country for the past several years. After the Emory University Visual Arts Program was closed in 2012, St. Paul’s College of Visual Arts closed as well. For universities and colleges that do offer art education, tuition can be high. Nancy Etz has made it her mission to support the arts.
A Place For Art
Art takes a variety of forms. From sculpting to portraits, art can benefit students for the rest of their lives. By sharing form and creative projects, students have a new perspective for their own art. The exposure to new ideas and expression has the ability to influence future works of art.
In addition to providing motivation and inspiration, art education teaches students how to problem-solve. Creative problem-solving methods are needed in everyday work environments as well as relationship building. Many classes teach students how to purposefully evoke emotions in a way that works for their style.
Working with art is one way of working with emotion. Developing the tools necessary to self-motivate and relieve stress are essential. Artistic expression is an effective way to release emotion while enhancing empathy.
Supporting The Arts
There are many ways to support the arts. Donations and fundraisers are helpful, but may exclude others without as much income. Making a difference in the art community also requires volunteers and administrators to run specific programs.
Depending on the location, art education can be found in community centers as well as public school systems. These classes can teach the basics as well as certain advanced techniques. For students that are looking for the next step, colleges and universities can provide a wealth of instruction.
The Difference Between Grants and Scholarships
University and college tuition can be extremely high even for the most talented students. There are multiple ways to receive money for the purpose of attending school, but they are not all created equal.
Grants usually come from the state or federal government. They can also come from the college or specific private sources. Grants are typically based on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid system and can examine family income. Grants, unlike loans, do not need to be repaid.
Scholarships are awarded to students for their accomplishments. This money does not need to be paid back and is designed for higher education. Need-based scholarships also exist for those who cannot afford tuition. Scholarships for higher education can be based on gender, financial standing, extracurricular activities and more. This income allows students to attend classes without worrying about the cost of the program.
Scholarships for Creatives
Of course, there are scholarships for students in the arts. Whether a student is looking into a degree program or just some additional classes to strengthen their skills, there are many options.
National Art Education Association and FedEx
The National Art Education Association has partnered with the FedEx Office to provide up to $3,000 in scholarships for students enrolled in an art education program. There are also smaller awards available of $600 to $750.
United Negro College Fund (UNCF)
Another popular organization is the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). They provide a variety of scholarships including those for minority students or those with a specific major. For example, their Remington College Visual Arts Scholarship provides one award to a student studying visual arts at Remington College Online. Students who have not been awarded any other scholarships can apply but there is only one winner each year so competition can be tough.
The National Society of Painters in Casein and Acrylic
They offer a different style of scholarship that focuses on actual artwork. Every two years, they choose the top casein and acrylic works between 500-3,000 square inches. These student works are selected on a national level and winners receive $500 each. This is great for students who do not always have the funds to complete projects but still want to be rewarded for their hard work.
The Nancy Etz Scholarship for Creatives
Nancy Etz supports the arts through scholarship opportunities. Her annual scholarship is for students who are currently enrolled full-time. The scholarship can be awarded to undergraduates or graduate students in the United States.
The award amount is $1000. Those that are eligible to apply must follow a specific set of criteria in order to qualify. Applicants must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program or a current high school student who has already been accepted into a university or college.
In addition to these programs, there are many more that support additional study in art education. Just look at your location to find out where scholarships can help you continue studying what you love! Art scholarships have the ability to impact lives. By improving a student’s frame of reference, new forms of creative expression can be considered.