The Russell J. Efros (RJE) Foundation announces the Sprout Fund, a new grant program established to support US-based visual and performing artists with direct funds for projects that will be completed within the next 12 months.
Named in honor of Russell Efros, who was affectionately called “Russell Sprouts” by his friends and family, the Sprout Fund was established in 2021 to support artists of diverse backgrounds who are formally trained or self-taught, and those whose creative work falls outside of traditional forms of art. In addition, grants are available for artists who have created community-centered art classes, therapy, outreach, and non-traditional projects.
Artists seeking funding should visit rjefoundation.org to apply. Awards will be administered throughout the calendar year, with an initial $50,000 awarded in June of 2021.
“This past year has been challenging for many of us,” says James Gaddy, RJE Foundation Executive Director. “Imagine our world without art, without music, without movies — artists touch our lives in numerous ways. We are thrilled to be able to support artists and their talents and passions. We are excited to see how these funds can help make dreams a reality.”
About Russell J. Efros
Russell Efros was a New York-based filmmaker and musician. He wrote, directed, produced, and edited short films and music videos. He also wrote, recorded, and performed music with his band, Plain Dog, as lead singer and guitarist.
About the Russell J. Efros Foundation
The Russell J. Efros Foundation sprouts creativity by providing direct support and community access to artists. We are fiercely pursuing Russell’s dreams, which have now become ours, to build a safe, warm, and nurturing community for creatives to express themselves, share their talents, create and collaborate with other artists, and gain access to the resources that they need to sprout and flourish.
To learn more and apply, visit rjefoundation.org.
