ANNUAL REPORT 20 24
This year has been nothing short of inspiring. Across Delaware, the arts have continued to shine as a source of joy, connection, and possibility. Together, we’ve witnessed creativity flourish in every corner of our state - on stages, in classrooms, at community gatherings, and beyond. Guided by our strategic plan, Cultivating Creativity: 2021-2025, we have diligently worked to empower non-profit arts organizations, community organizations, schools, and individual artists through granting initiatives, programs, and resources.
The Division of the Arts has been privileged to support this vibrant growth, increasing access to grants and programs that empower artists, engage communities, and bring innovative new ideas to life Thanks to your passion and partnership, more individuals and organizations than ever before are tapping into the transformative power of the Arts. These opportunities aren’t just funding projects - they’re sparking connections, nurturing talent, and making Delaware an even more dynamic place to live, work, and create
As we reflect on the year behind us, we are also eagerly looking forward to what lies ahead. There is so much potential to build on this momentum, expanding the reach of the arts to new audiences and strengthening the creative fabric of our state From innovative programs to deepened collaborations, the future is full of possibility, and we can’t wait to continue this journey with you.
But there’s still so much more to achieve, and we invite you to join us in advancing the Arts across our state. Whether you’re an artist, educator, advocate, or supporter, your involvement helps drive this vital work. Attend an event, explore our grant opportunities, or share your ideas with us - there’s a place for everyone in Delaware’s creative community.
We hope you’ll stay inspired and connected - whether by exploring the wealth of opportunities we offer, supporting local artists, or simply celebrating the joy that creativity brings to our lives. Together, let’s make Delaware’s arts community stronger, more inclusive, and more vibrant than ever.
Jessica Ball Director, Delaware Division of the Arts
J Mack Wathen Chair, Delaware State Arts Council
About the Delaware Division of the Arts
The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is committed to supporting the arts and cultivating creativity to enhance the quality of life in Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life
MISSION
The Delaware Division of the Arts is a state agency committed to supporting the arts and cultivating creativity to enhance the quality of life in Delaware
VISION
We envision a future where every person and community in Delaware has access to, and appreciation for, the diversity, richness, and transformative power of the arts. We believe in the following core values: artistic merit, diversity, equity, inclusion, and innovation.
Step Afrika!
2024 Outcomes
The Delaware Division of the Arts operates with a steadfast commitment to its publicly informed strategic plan, ensuring that every program, initiative, and service reflects the needs and aspirations of Delaware’s creative sector This plan serves as a roadmap, guiding the Division in fostering a thriving, inclusive arts ecosystem across the state. By engaging artists, arts organizations, educators, and community leaders in ongoing dialogue, the Division ensures its work remains responsive, impactful, and aligned with the evolving needs of our communities
The following highlights progress made toward the four key outcomes outlined in the strategic plan: expanding access to quality arts education, cultivating a healthy and sustainable arts ecosystem, fostering diversity and equity in arts programming, and increasing statewide recognition of Division grants and services These achievements represent significant steps forward in the Division’s mission to empower creativity and ensure the arts continue to enrich the lives of all Delawareans.
Outcome 1: Quality arts education experiences for all
The Division significantly expanded access to arts education in schools statewide by funding Education Resource grants, Artist Residency grants, and TranspARTation field trip grants, which saw a 30% increase in the number of awards. These grants brought professional artists into classrooms, supported immersive learning experiences, and made it possible for students to attend enriching arts performances and exhibitions. Partnering with the Delaware Department of Education, the Division hosted the 2024 Summer Professional Development Institute for arts teachers This program equipped educators with tools to address trauma in the classroom and prioritize teacher wellness, ensuring students benefit from healthy, creative learning environments
At an underserved Title 1 high school, the fourth IDEA drama and history arts-integrated residency inspired students through hands-on creative workshops and an engaging performance field trip. This unique initiative blended storytelling and history, giving students a memorable way to connect with their studies Through the second year of SETA (Students Engaged in Traditional Arts) programs, middle schoolers at Boys & Girls Clubs explored the rich traditions of Indian painting, African drumming, spoken word, and storytelling These after-school sessions not only taught artistic skills but also helped students connect with diverse cultural heritages. With a $95,000 national grant, the Division expanded its Access Creative Aging programming in public libraries This initiative brought meaningful, creative experiences to older adults, fostering community connections and lifelong learning Poetry took center stage as the Division celebrated the 19th anniversary of Delaware’s Poetry Out Loud (POL) national recitation program. Students across the state embraced the art of performance poetry, discovering their voices and building confidence through this nationally recognized program
Outcome 2: A healthy arts ecosystem where artists are supported and connected, and arts organizations are financially sustainable
The Division administered a transformative $1 million funding increase, empowering Delaware’s arts ecosystem with enhanced grant programs This funding supported the operational needs of arts organizations, offered workshops and consulting to strengthen their sustainability, and boosted community-based arts programs and educational initiatives. Through the Artist Career Development (ACD) program’s second year, the Division provided stipends and professional training to three emerging, diverse artists across the state This initiative is cultivating the next generation of creative leaders in Delaware’s arts scene
For the 24th consecutive year, the Division partnered with the Biggs Museum of American Art to present a traveling group exhibition of the Division’s Individual Artist Fellows. This showcase celebrated the work of talented artists while connecting communities across Delaware’s three counties to exceptional art.
The 2023 Delaware Arts Summit brought together over 200 members of the arts community for a day of professional development and networking This event fostered meaningful connections, inspired innovation, and provided tools to strengthen the arts sector statewide
In collaboration with Lifetime Arts, the Division trained 22 teaching artists to create and present innovative creative aging programs. These workshops ensure older adults have access to enriching artistic opportunities that support lifelong learning and community engagement
The Division established an internship with the University of Delaware’s College of Arts and Sciences, creating a pathway for students to gain hands-on experience while contributing to the advancement of Delaware’s arts ecosystem.
The completion of the Arts and Economic Impact 6 study offered valuable insights into the financial contributions of Delaware’s arts sector This statewide data collection effort highlighted the economic power of the arts, reinforcing their critical role in community development
Through the Creative Economy Advancement & Tourism Expansion (CREATE) Plan, an initiative led by the Delaware Arts Alliance, Delawareans worked together to shape a shared vision for a thriving, inclusive, and interconnected creative economy This collaboration set a course for long-term growth and innovation in the arts
2024 Outcomes
Outcome 3: Artists, arts organization staff, and arts programming reflect the diversity of our communities
The Division championed equity and innovation through the Arts Equity and Innovation Incubator grant program, providing an invited group of general operating support organizations with tools and training in IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access) principles This initiative empowered organizations to embrace business innovation, financial sustainability and creative transformation.
Smaller organizations were supported through the pilot of the Delaware Arts Equity and Access Workshops These sessions focused on equity and access, culminating in implementation grants for nine small-to-medium general operating support grantees to bring these principles to life in their programming
Artists across Delaware received enhanced visibility and professional growth opportunities with the redesigned Delaware Artist Roster, which now includes expanded features to showcase and market their work. Additional support came through Mezzanine Gallery exhibitions, event postings on DelawareScene com, and financial planning workshops, ensuring artists had the resources to thrive
The Division proudly promoted and managed appearances for Delaware’s Poet Laureates, The Twin Poets, whose impactful performances and community engagement brought poetry to the forefront of the state’s cultural landscape Free Access Creative Aging programs continued to flourish, serving individuals aged 55+ at 11 locations. These programs enriched participants' lives by providing meaningful opportunities for creative expression and connection
The Division celebrated the creativity of state employees and their families through the 13th Annual State Employee Art Exhibition This event highlighted the artistic talents within Delaware’s workforce and brought the joy of art to the community
Outcome
4: Division grants and services are recognized by all, particularly by artists, organizations, and community
leaders
The Division connected with communities statewide by presenting and exhibiting at organizations, meetings, and cultural events to reach new and underserved constituents These efforts increased awareness and participation in the Division’s grants and services, making them accessible to a broader audience.
Through a partnership with DETV, the Division launched the Arts Alive Delaware TV program. This engaging series featured 10-minute segments that showcased the inspiring work of grantee organizations, bringing the arts into the homes of viewers across the state
Creation of promotional videos highlighting key programs such as Access Creative Aging, the Mezzanine Gallery, and Poetry Out Loud, spotlighting their impact and encouraging greater participation from artists, organizations, and community members.
The Delaware State of the Arts podcast expanded its reach by becoming available on major platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, and more, making it easier than ever for listeners to connect with the stories behind Delaware’s arts scene
The Division achieved significant growth in grant applications, with a 7% increase in community-based applicants, a 28.5% rise in BIPOC-led organization applicants, and a 17% increase in individual artist applications, including an impressive 66% growth in BIPOC artist submissions
By serving as a creative placemaking and arts programming resource, the Division supported numerous agencies, community organizations, and municipalities, helping them integrate the arts into community development and planning.
Digital and outdoor marketing efforts saw remarkable success, with an 88% jump in site visits to DelawareScene com and a 350% increase in social media followers across platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube These advancements amplified the visibility of Delaware’s arts community and fostered deeper engagement statewide
Rebecca Raubacher
Partners
Working together, we are stronger We are grateful to the following national agencies, state and philanthropic partners for partnering with the Division of the Arts to support the arts and culture sector. Thank you.
National
Partners
State Partners Agency Partners
Division Programming
Shakira Hunt
2024 Individual Artist Fellowships
Delaware’s Individual Artist Fellowships recognize artists for their outstanding quality of work and provide monetary awards Individual Artist Fellows are publicly acknowledged and benefit from the additional exposure to their work In 2024, the Division received applications from 149 Delaware choreographers; composers; musicians; writers; and folk, media, and visual artists The work samples were reviewed by out-of-state arts professionals who considered the demonstrated creativity and skill in each artist’s respective art form Twenty artists were awarded fellowships in the following categories – one, Masters; ten, Established; and nine, Emerging The twenty selected fellows reside throughout Delaware including Arden, Dover, Lewes, Long Neck, Newark Rehoboth Beach and Wilmington.
Mark Hagerty
Master, Music: Composition Wilmington
“I strive for music that transports the listener, with expression and connection paramount, and to reach both seasoned concertgoers and newcomers ”
David Bur
Visual Arts: S Arden
Victor Let
Literature: Nonfiction
Samantha Facciolo Literature: Fiction
Jennifer Morrell
Visual Arts: Painting Rehoboth Beach
Brandan Henry Visual Arts: Works on Paper Wil i
M. Amber Spivey Dance: Choreography Newark
Richard Hill, Jr Jazz: Composition Wilmington
L.J. Sysko
Literature: Poetry Wilmington
Aaron Keith Hoffer
Visual Arts: Painting Dover
Julieta Zavala Folk Art: Visual Arts
Trebs Thompson Visual Arts: Crafts Newark
Mariano Mallia Music: Performance Wilmington
Brandan Henry
Julieta Zavala Maya Belardo
Award Winners XXIV
Poetry Out Loud
Following a spirited competition featuring eleven talented high school students from Delaware, Maiss Hussein, a senior from Paul M. Hodgson Vocational Technical High School, emerged as the 2024 Poetry Out Loud Delaware State Champion. The exhilarating state finals took place on February 29th, 2024, at the Smyrna Opera House Joelle Caternor from Smyrna High School secured the first runner-up position, while Jono McGarvey from Delaware Valley Classical School claimed the second runner-up title
This victory marks Maiss as only the third participant in Delaware’s 18-year involvement with the program to secure consecutive wins Reflecting on her achievement, Hussein remarked, “My first win was unforgettable, but the second time around has left me in awe It feels like I’m still in shock!”
Hussein’s captivating recitation of “If They Should Come For Us” by Fatimah Asghar earned high praise from the adjudicators. The profound poem can be explored on the Poetry Foundation’s website.
In an ode to Maiss’s exceptional achievement, Jessica Ball, Director of the Division of the Arts, remarked, “Maiss Hussein’s victory is not just a triumph for her, but a testament to the power of poetry to transcend and inspire We are immensely proud of her accomplishment and look forward to witnessing her shine on the national stage ”
Jamie Feldman (Wilmington Friends School) 2 32 4 S t u d e n t s
Jono McGarvey (Delaware Valley Classical School)
Grace Sullivan (MOT Charter High School)
Olivia Stevens (Mount Sophia Academy)
Maiss Hussein (Paul M. Hodgson Vocational Technical High School)
Hunter Brown (Red Lion Christian Academy)
Abigail Ehemann (Saint Mark’s High School)
Perrin Brown (Sanford School)
Joelle Caternor (Smyrna High School)
Harrison Dabbs (Sussex Academy of Arts & Sciences)
Nife Anawo (Sussex Central High School)
Caliana Velasquez (Sussex Technical High School)
Participating in Poetry Out Loud has been nothing short of an amazing experience. While you sense the joys of recitation and performance, there lies a passion and sense of identity on the stage It inevitably becomes much more than merely trying to win a title or 1st place prize As I’ve taken part in the experience for 2 years now, I’ve realized the importance literature has impacted me in all aspects Most significantly, the mark Poetry Out Loud has left on me was by far the most recognizable
While I always loved poetry, the spark was never ignited to perform. After being introduced and continuing to enjoy the program, I quickly saw the change in myself. Initially, I was never someone who was eager to quickly express themself, whether it be emotionally or in the sense of my background Suppressing it always seemed like a better idea Over time, that surely proved to be of no benefit However, as I got into Poetry Out Loud, that trait began to shift From interpreting endless poems to just engaging with others who had the same passion, I was finally able to express these thoughts the way I needed to Evoking emotions, even though somebody else’s words, provided me with not only a connection to others, but to myself. I had developed a sense of self-awareness that I may not have developed sooner. If I couldn’t speak up or advocate for people, I spoke through my performances, which was the greatest thing Poetry Out Loud had given me.
Especially as a student, I was even experiencing a change academically While poetry certainly provides you with an emotionally fulfilling aspect, I was learning so much in every poem I heard or read Whether it was culturally or historically, there was something to grasp each time Even after seeing poems be performed, you catch onto certain details and reflect as to how it may be significant in the real world As funny as it sounds, there were times I’d catch myself in class referring to how I’d already learned certain events or historical moments from the poetry I was performing.
Not only was I learning more about myself and those around me, but I continued to learn more of the world I was living in Not to mention, connecting with other talented individuals only further allowed me to strengthen the relationships within my own life My experience with Poetry Out Loud has truly allowed me to navigate the “world of words” and further evolve myself both on and off the stage
Maiss Hussein, 2023 and 2024 State Champion
The Mezzanine Gallery
The Council and the Division have been administering art exhibitions in the Carvel State Office Building in Wilmington since 1978. Since then, The Mezzanine Gallery has featured over 550 exhibitions of work in a variety of disciplines including painting, photography, sculpture, crafts, folk, and media arts.
Originally called Gallery I, the Mezzanine Gallery presents Delaware artists in solo exhibitions The opportunity is available to Delaware Individual Artist Fellowship winners or to artists who have been chosen by the Division’s annual Gallery Panel
Exhibitions are rotated on a monthly basis for a total of 11 per year Each artist receives individually designed email invitations, an opening or closing reception, extensive media coverage, and commission-free sales
Ron Meick (Wilmington) 2 32 4 A r t i s t s
Hannah Whiddon (Lewes)
Bryant “Tee” Bell (Dover)
B. Proud (Wilmington)
Lauren E Peters (Wilmington)
Cony Madariaga (Wilmington)
Aaron Keith Hoffer (Dover)
E. Schwinn (Wilmington)
Gregg Silvis (Newark)
Don James (Milton)
The Mezzanine Gallery is a true asset for Delaware’s artists, providing a professional, well-lit, and welcoming space to showcase a substantial body of work to the public. Opportunities like this are rarer than many people realize, especially for emerging artists seeking to gain valuable experience in mounting exhibitions and seeing their work in a professional setting. Even for more seasoned artists, it’s a chance to grow and connect. This gallery stands as a cornerstone of our arts community, and I’ve personally experienced its transformative impact through two solo exhibitions (2018, 2023). Each time, I’ve been able to see my growth as an artist and share that journey with others, making the Mezzanine Gallery an invaluable resource for creatives in Delaware
- Wilmington artist Lauren E. Peters
B Proud Gallery Opening
Ron Meick Gallery Opening
E Schwinn Gallery Opening
Delaware Artist Roster
The Artist Roster began as a print directory of literary, media, performing, and visual artists who live and work in Delaware and are available to exhibit, perform, or present programs in venues across the state.
Compiled by the Division, the Artist Roster was designed to serve as a resource for performing arts centers, galleries, colleges, festivals, schools, parks, civic organizations, businesses, municipal government, and any other group that presents the work of artists within their community In 2006, the Division launched the Artist Roster as an online, searchable database In 2024, the Artist Roster was integrated with DelawareScene com, providing artists increases visual capabilities and event listings
Currently, the Artist Roster is home to over 400 artist profiles, showcasing the vibrancy of talent in the First State.
For more information, visit DelawareScene.com/artists.
Previous Version (2013-2023)
Current Version (2024)
The Delaware Artist Roster was designed by Zero Defect Design www zerodefectdesign com
Delaware State Employee Art Exhibition
Sponsored by the National Arts Program and administered by the Division, the annual Delaware State Employee Art Exhibition is open to all benefit-eligible state employees and their immediate family members Visual arts professionals judge the work in the categories of amateur, intermediate, professional, teen, and youth
Begun in 2012, the exhibition is designed to give artists at all skill levels a unique opportunity to exhibit their original work and to compete for cash prizes The Mezzanine Gallery at the Carvel State Office Building in Wilmington was the site of the first exhibition, and since then, it has been held at the Art Center/Gallery at Delaware State University in Dover. As of 2024, over 2,900 participants have exhibited their artwork.
Best of Show: Hyo Lee (Dover)
Art Education Award: Nathanael Taylor (Milton)
People’s Choice Award (Online): Sarah Silves (Dover)
People’s Choice Award (In-person): Naomi Smith (Dover)
Special Award, Monotone: Casey Williams (Brighton)
Special Award, Craft: Maggie Wieber (Denton)
Special Award, Nature: Meg Grotti (Hockessin)
Special Award, Portrait: Jasmine Davis (Dover)
Special Award, Abstract: Raymond Lewis (Wilmington)
Professional Category:
First Place: Brianna Shetzler (Clayton)
Second Place: Sharif Sadiq (Seaford)
Third Place: Joseph Repetti (Newark)
Intermediate Category:
First Place: Christopher Vasil (Ocean View)
Second Place: Elizabeth Chen (Middletown)
Third Place: Ashley Holmes (Clayton)
Amateur Category:
First Place: Cyndi Holbrook (North East, MD)
Second Place: Jeff Dorsch (Milton)
Third Place: Kelly Nichol (Wilmington)
Teen Category:
First Place: Kamora Jones (Wilmington)
Second Place: Jolene Pham (Townsend)
Third Place: EJ Egloff (Middletown)
Youth Category:
First Place: Izzabella West (Camden)
Second Place: Genevieve Dinsmore (Wilmington)
Third Place: Sabrina Rambo (Dover)
This program is made possible by support from: Arts Center/Gallery at Delaware State University
Delaware Creative Aging
Older adults have vital contributions to make to society as creators and community members. Abundant evidence shows that arts participation improves the emotional well-being of older adults, supports good health, strengthens social bonds, and brings a heightened experience of purpose and joy to our lives as we mature
However, older adults all too often experience the effects of ageism, isolation and limited access to meaningful arts learning experiences. State arts agencies can help to address these gaps by facilitating creative aging programming as an antidote to isolation, an affirmation of life and a pathway to flourishing for older adults.
The Access Creative Aging initiative, in partnership with the Delaware Division of Libraries, is designed to provide Delaware’s older population with opportunities for artistic expression, social interaction, and enhanced mental and physical health through meaningful engagement in the arts
In FY2024, the following locations held Access Creative Aging programs:
Hockessin Library
Route 9 Library
Woodlawn Library
Kirkwood Library
Selbyville Public Library
Georgetown Public Library
Laurel Public Library
Lewes Library
Harrington Library
Delaware City Library
Corbit-Calloway Library
This program is made possible by support from:
The Delaware Division of the Arts successfully launched a redesigned DelawareScene.com, enhancing its functionality and user experience to better serve the state’s arts and culture community With a fresh, mobile-friendly interface and improved navigation, the site continues to reach over 250,000 visitors annually as the go-to resource for arts and culture events across Delaware Supported by an expanded marketing campaign, the redesigned platform saw an 88% increase in unique site visitors and an impressive 183% increase in site sessions demonstrating not only a growing awareness of the site, but also a strong rate of return as users increasingly rely on DelawareScene.com to discover and engage with cultural happenings statewide.
As Delaware’s Poets Laureate, Representative Nnamdi O. Chukwuocha and Albert Mills known collectively as the Twin Poets have powerfully advanced the role of poetry and the literary arts as essential components of Delaware’s cultural heritage Through compelling performances at official state functions, including the opening of legislative sessions, the Governor’s Awards for the Arts, conferences, and civic ceremonies, they have elevated the presence of poetry in public life Their outreach extends across the state, where they engage students and residents alike through poetry readings, discussions, and community events that inspire dialogue and connection.
In 2024, the Delaware Division of the Arts expanded the reach of its State of the Arts podcast by making it available on all major streaming platforms, increasing accessibility and audience engagement across the state and beyond. This expansion reflects the Division’s commitment to amplifying the voices of Delaware’s arts innovators, creative leaders, and cultural changemakers. Each episode continues to spotlight the people and projects shaping the First State’s vibrant creative sector, offering listeners meaningful insights into the transformative power of the arts in our communities
The Delaware Arts Summit, held in Dewey Beach, offered a powerful day of reflection, renewal, and rejuvenation for the state’s creative collective As the arts sector continues to emerge from the challenges of recent years, the Summit provided space for artists, administrators, and advocates to recharge, reconnect, and reimagine their work Attendees participated in sessions focused on mindfulness, stress reduction, effective communication, and navigating uncertainty tools designed to strengthen both individuals and organizations The day was anchored by a moving keynote address from Philadelphia-based artist and social activist Roberto Lugo, whose powerful storytelling and artistry explore themes of inequality and racial injustice through the lens of his North Philadelphia roots.
The Artist Career Development (ACD) pilot program provided competitive, two-year sustained support for emerging or mid-career Delaware artists, one in each county Selected artists received $10,000 each progra year to advance their artistic and business practices, build community connections The program was crea address specific outcomes, including:
Enhancing artists’ career-building skills by facili artist connections and providing training opportu
Engaging artists by connecting them to one anot enhance their work
Encouraging greater collaboration among arts organizations and artists statewide
The Division of the Arts worked with the Boys and G Clubs of Delaware to support a two-year pilot progra Students Engaged with Traditional Arts (SETA), to bring folk and traditional artists to three after-school program sites in each county The SETA program supported the transmission of tradition and strengthen living traditions of diverse cultures in Delaware through programming that meets the following Division strategic goals:
Support quality arts education experiences for all
Create a program and partnership that identifies, documents, and celebrates folk and traditional arts in Delaware
Americans for the Arts launched the Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6) study, their sixth national study of the economic impact of the nonprofit arts and culture industry. Building on its 25-year legacy, the highly regarded Arts & Economic Prosperity® series documented in unprecedented scope and detail the economic power that the arts and culture wield in 373 participating communities ranging in geography, population, and population density. In Delaware, the results showed that the non-profit arts and culture sector generates $209M in annual activity, supporting 3,300 jobs and $40M in tax revenue On average, audiences in Delaware spend $43 45 in the community in secondary spending, in addition to the cost of admission
Since 2022, the Delaware Arts Alliance (DAA) has been driving a groundbreaking research process to propel Delaware’s creative economy and cultural tourism sector forward The Creative Economy Advancement & Tourism Expansion (CREATE) Plan, an initiative led by DAA, engages Delawareans in shaping a shared vision for a thriving, inclusive, and interconnected creative economy This project which is the first of its kind in the nation delves into the full creative landscape at the state, county, and city levels Developed with input from over 600 Delawareans from all walks of life, the CREATE Plan tackles post-pandemic challenges and provides actionable solutions to strengthen Delaware’s creative economy.
General Operating Support
Support of annual operating expenses to ensure that year-round participation in the arts is available to the people of Delaware. Applications open December 1 with an annual deadline of March 1.
Grand Opera House
Delaware Art Museum
Joshua M Freeman Foundation
Music School of Delaware
Delaware Theatre Company
Biggs Museum of American Art
Delaware Symphony Association
The Delaware Contemporary
New Candlelight Productions
OperaDelaware
Christina Cultural Arts Center
The Choir School of Delaware
Clear Space Theatre Company
Rehoboth Art League
First State Ballet Theatre
The Winterthur Museum
The Everett
Delaware Celebration of Jazz
Developing Artist Collaboration
Rehoboth Beach Film Society
Center for the Creative Arts
Wilmington Ballet Academy of the Dance
Delaware Shakespeare
Smyrna-Clayton Heritage Association
Reed's Refuge
Delaware Institute for the Arts in Education
Wilmington Children's Chorus Inc
Delaware Children's Theatre
Possum Point Players
Inner City Cultural League
Wilmington Drama League
Brandywine Baroque
StartUp Program
$347,904
$329,522
$295,973
$199,688
$197,843
$137,100
$128,960
$125,015
$110,442
$103,785
$100,846
$100,230
$99,103
$96,566
$81,092
$75,000
$70,500
$67,140
$61,143
$60,690
$57,250
$56,134
$54,870
$52,986
$45,878
$42,247
$32,781
$32,697
$28,564
$28,540
$28,459
$25,450
Coastal Concerts Inc
Pieces of A Dream
Art Works for All
Newark Symphony Orchestra
Newark Arts Alliance
Mispillion Art League
Art Therapy Express Program
Delaware Dance Company
Milford 2nd Street Players
University Drama Group
Market Street Music Corporation
Delaware Choral Arts Association
Kent County Theatre Guild Foundation
CoroAllegro
City Theater Company
Dover Art League
Delaware Choral Society
Rehoboth Summer Children's Theatre
Seaford Community Concert Association
Bootless Stageworks
Southern Delaware Chorale
Rainbow Chorale of Delaware
New Light Theatre Company
Milton Arts Guild
Rehoboth Concert Band
Capital Ringers Inc
Wilmington Concert Opera
The Children's Theatre
Jester Artspace
Milford Community Band
Delaware Photographic Society
A comprehensive program of financial support, training, and consultation to develop and strengthen the management capacity of emerging arts organizations Completion of the StartUp program is a prerequisite for emerging organizations seeking General Operating Support
Arts Stabilization Grants
Support for improvements to facilities owned (or under long-term lease) and operated by the organization. ASF grants are funded through the Division’s participation in the Arts Consortium of Delaware, Inc (ArtCo) endowment Applications open December 1 with an annual deadline of March 1
Delaware Dance Company
Possum Point Players
Jester Artspace
Dover Art League
Special Project Grants
Center for the Creative Arts
The Delaware Contemporary Biggs Museum of American Art
Special project grants are available to enhance organizational capacity and for other projects as determined by the Division Director. Examples include strategic planning/research, professional development for staff/board, and special projects for the betterment of the state and sector.
Individual Artist Fellowships
Delaware’s Individual Artist Fellowships recognize artists for their outstanding quality of work and provide monetary awards. Individual Artist Fellows are publicly acknowledged and benefit from the additional exposure to their work
Mark Hagerty
Maya Belardo
David Burslem
Lori Crawford
Richard Hill, Jr
Shakira Hunt
Michael Kardos
Victor Letonoff
Rebecca Raubacher
L J Sysko
$12,000
$8,000
$8,000
$8,000 $8,000
Artist Opportunity Grants
Trebs Thompson
Pultixima
Samantha Facciolo
Brandan Henry
Aaron Keith Hoffer
Mariano Mallia
Joyce Enzor Maust
Jennifer Morrell
M. Amber Spivey
Julieta Zavala
Artist Opportunity Grants are awarded on a competitive basis to support unique professional and artistic development and presentation opportunities for artists
Jennifer Margaret Barker
Susan Benarcik
Jennifer Dalasio
Hezekiah Davis III
Liz DeJesus
La-Chelle Dickenson
Michael Fleishman
Christine Foster
D Hall
Vik Hart
Katherine Heisler
Erin Hellmann
Itzel Hernandez
Scotty Horey
Samantha Hutton
Sa-Kreea Jackson
Elizabeth Kelly
Marie Kenion
Janice King
Kira Krell
$8,000
$5,000
$5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000
Rosaria Macera
Kristen Margiotta
Brian Mills
Hillary Mohaupt
Mia Muratori
Lauren E Peters
Jennifer Polillo
E Shawn Qaissaunee
Alissa Rosenstein
Jazmin Salaberrios
Daniel Seymour
Gregory W Shelnutt
Elizabeth Shepley
Guillermo Silveira
Caroline Simpson
Crystal Stokowski
Cathy Wright
Anne Yarbrough
Ashlynn Zulinski
r a n t s f o r I n d i v i d u a l A r t i s t s
Mariano Mallia
M. Amber Spivey
s Project Support Grants
G r a n t s f o r C o m m u n i t y O r g a n i z a t i o n
Support for arts programs provided by CBOs that assist in the growth of a vibrant cultural environment by encouraging the continued development of arts activities in communities throughout the state College and university projects must be non-credit and serve the general community. Applications open December 1 with an annual deadline of March 1.
University of Delaware
Resident Ensemble Players
Master Players
School of Music
Arden Club
CAMP Rehoboth, Inc
Kingswood Community Center
Gamma Theta Lambda Education Foundation
Cab Calloway School Fund
YMCA of Delaware
Wilmington Alliance, Inc
Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware
Siegel Jewish Community Center of Delaware
Delaware Pacem in Terris
Summer Learning Collaborative
Arts Access Grants
$32,500
$32,500
$10,000
$21,000
$19,700
$12,517
$10,000
$10,000
$9,900
$8,500
$8,000
$7,000
$6,525
$5,000
Cancer Support Community Delaware
Friends of Wilmington Parks
Forward Journey
Dover Public Library
City of Lewes
Bowers Beach Maritime Museum
Rockwood Park & Museum
Eleutherian Mills-Hagley Foundation
Native Roots Farm Foundation
Delaware College of Art and Design
City of Newark
Four Youth
REEL Families for Change
Delaware Center for Horticulture
$5,000 $4,000 $3,993 $3,690 $3,600 $3,600 $3,100 $3,090 $2,745 $2,700 $2,700 $2,700 $2,500 $2,000
Arts Access provides small grants of up to 80 percent of eligible cash expenses, not to exceed $1,250, to support the presentation of performing, visual, literary, media, or folk arts in communities throughout the state.
Delaware Friends of Folk
Southern Delaware Orchestra (SODELO)
The Ministry of Caring Inc
Afro-American Historical Society of DE Chrysalis Center for the Creativity in the Performing Arts
Cityfest Inc
Coastal Camera Club
Easterseals Delaware & Maryland's Eastern Shore Inc
Echoes and Footprints Inc
Friends of Cooch's Bridge Historic Site
Latin American Community Center
Special Project Grants
$2,500
$2,500
$2,500
$1,250
$1,250
$1,250
$1,250 $1,250
$1,250
$1,250 $1,250
Lewes Public Library
Main Street Dover
Mispillion Performance Series
Spur Impact Association
The National Presbyterian Church
Town of Bowers
Wilmington Classical Guitar Society
Mispillion Performance Series
Main Street Dover
Nehemiah Gateway Community Development Corporation
Laurel Historical Society, Inc
Special project grants are available to enhance organizational capacity and for other projects as determined by the Division Director. Examples include strategic planning/research, professional development for staff/board, and special projects for the betterment of the state and sector
Delaware Arts Alliance
National Assembly of State Arts Agencies
Delaware First Media Corporation
Spur Impact Association
University of Delaware
Delaware Arts Alliance
National League of American Pen Women
City of Lewes
Delaware Division of Parks & Recreation
$1,250 $1,250 $1,250 $1,250 $1,250 $1,250 $1,250 $1,200 $1,000 $1,000 $960
$50,000
$33,870
$25,000
$20,000
$15,000
$15,000
$12,500
$12,000
$10,000
Education Resource Grants
Grants to strengthen standards-based arts education projects, programs, and activities that utilize the arts education resources of the Delaware arts community or strengthen arts organizations’ capacity to serve as professional development resources for teaching artists and educators Applications open December 1 with an annual deadline of March 1.
Grand Opera House
OperaDelaware
Joshua M. Freeman Foundation
Kuumba Academy Charter School
Delaware Theatre Company
Wilmington Children’s Chorus
The Delaware Contemporary
$15,000 $15,000 $15,000
$15,000
$15,000
$8,497
$7,196
Artist Residency Grants
First State Ballet Theatre
Winterthur Museum, Inc
Art Works for All
Biggs Museum of American Art
Christina School District
Delaware Art Museum
Delaware Shakespeare
Artist Residency grants are for residencies with visual, literary, performing or media artists working with students in the classroom or in professional development workshops with teachers. Rolling applications accepted until funds depleted
Gateway Charter School
Colonial School District
First State Montessori Academy
Stanton Middle School
Las Americas ASPIRA Academy
Joseph E. Johnson School
Kuumba Academy Charter School
$7,250
Christiana High School
Dover High School
AI Dupont High School
Laurel Senior High School
$2,700
$1,600
$1,450
TranspARTation Grants
William Penn High School
Glasgow High School
TranspARTation Grants support transportation costs of up to $500 for schools to travel to Delaware arts and cultural institutions and venues in order for students to attend arts performances, events, and exhibits
AI Dupont High School
Banneker Elementary School
Brittingham Elementary School
Campus Community School
Early Learning Center
East Millsboro Elementary
Georgetown Elementary School
John M Clayton Elementary
Las Americas ASPIRA Academy
Laurel Elementary School
Laurel Senior High School
Lewis Dual Language Elementary School
Long Neck Elementary School
$300
Lord Baltimore Elementary School
Love Creek Elementary School
Middletown High School
Milton Elementary School
Mispillion Elementary School
Mount Pleasant High School
North Georgetown Elementary School
Rehoboth Elementary School
Showell (Phillip C ) Elementary School
Southern Delaware School of the Arts
Sussex Academy of Arts & Sciences
Sussex Montessori Public Charter School
West Park Place Elementary School
Delaware Creative Aging Grants
Grants provide arts programming for Delaware’s older population with opportunities for artistic expression, social interaction, and enhanced mental and physical health through meaningful engagement in the arts
Georgetown Public Library
Corbit-Calloway Memorial Library
Laurel Public Library
Harrington Public Library
Selbyville Public Library
New Castle County
$4,496
$4,493
$4,455
$4,215
$3,948
$3,728
Woodlawn Library
Delaware City Public Library
Kirkwood Library
Lewes Public Library
Hockessin Library
G r a n t s f o r S c h o o l s a n d L i f e l o n g L e a r n i n g
State of Delaware Administration
John Carney Governor Dr Bethany Hall-Long Lieutenant Governor
Jeffrey Bullock Secretary of State Kristopher Knight Deputy Secretary of State
2024 Division Staff
Jessica Ball Director
Kristin Pleasanton Deputy Director
Kathleen Dinsmore Program Officer, Organization Support
Briana Henry Program Officer, Community Engagement
Sheila Dean Ross Program Officer, Arts Education and Accessibility
Roxanne Stanulis Program Officer, Artist Programs and Services
Andrew Truscott Program Officer, Communications and Marketing
Dana Wise
Office Manager and Council Logistics
Dr Traci Currie Poetry Out Loud State Coordinator
Ryan Morris Program Associate
Leah Wolf Artist Services Assistant
2024 Delaware State Arts Council
J. Mack Wathen (Chair)
Middletown
Jacalyn Beam
Greenville
Dr Suzanne Burton
Newark
David Fleming
Wilmington
Catharine Lyons
Smyrna
Keith Mosher
Lincoln
John T. Muller
Dover
Joseph P. Nestlerode
Townsend
Rosetta Roach
Magnolia
Dr Daniel Shelton
Newark
Leslie Sinclair
Rehoboth Beach
Gregory Watkins
Middletown
Hilary Welliver
Dover
Beverly Zimmermann
Wilmington
2024 Grant Panelists
Charles Bachman, Leah Beach, Jacalyn Beam, Alonna Berry, Donna Blakey, Dr Suzanne Burton, Ashley SK Davis, David Fleming, Margaretta Frederick, Jennifer Gunther, Jaclyn Hale, Ginny Jewell, John Kidd, David Kim, Kim Klabe, Vertie Lee, Terri McCall, Hannah Grasso-McLain, Nataki Oliver, Dr Lynnette Overby, Michelle Peebles, John Phillos, Jody Stein, J Mack Wathen, Greg Watkins, Samara Weaver, Beverly Zimmermann
Cultivating creativity in Delaware through grants, trainings, and programs like:
The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is committed to supporting the arts and cultivating creativity to enhance the quality of life in Delaware Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life
Cover Photo: E. Schwinn, “Holding the space all about her mind” (2023), Collage and mixed media on paper, 10 5"x13 5"
Other Photos: Joe del Tufo, Moonloop Photography and Division Staff