The Alameda County Arts Commission is devoted to promoting all forms of art, from music and dance to visual arts, literature, theater, film and video, traditional crafts, and folklore. Through the ARTSFUND grant program, the Commission provides non-profit arts and cultural organizations in Alameda County with the resources they need to offer artistic and cultural programs to members of the community. These programs can include visual arts, dance, theater, music, literature, poetry, cultural events and traditions, and other related forms. To contribute to the fund, Alameda County landlords can fill out the donation form included on their property tax bill. Additionally, there are seats designated for ex officio members who represent major county departments and major educational and cultural institutions in Alameda County.
Candidates must be residents of Alameda County and participate in an artistic discipline that includes, but is not limited to, music, dance, visual arts, literature, theater, film and video, traditional crafts, and popular arts and new media. The Arts Commission works in collaboration with the East Bay Arts and Cultural Alliance – a coalition of organizations located throughout the region that work together to strengthen the arts and cultural community. In late June 2020, grants were awarded to The Foodbank Players, Altarena Playhouse, the West End Arts District (WEAD), Soli Deo Gloria, RADIUM Presents, Friends of the Alameda Free Library, and ArtPush. Funding provided by the Alameda County Arts Commission will help these arts groups further enrich the community and realize residents' diverse artistic ambitions. WEAD has many projects currently underway – such as “The Art of San Quintín” and “Fiesta Alameda” – but has stated that the grant will be used mainly to finance the runway mural project. This multidimensional mural will be displayed on the walls and floors of the next RADIUM runway. In addition to grants from the Alameda County Arts Commission, other grants are available when possible – such as Alameda County Arts Aid Grants for Covid Recovery.
Nomination statements should include a description of the candidate's main artistic achievements that have benefited the community and residents of Alameda County; the impact and results of the achievements; and other basic information about the candidate's contributions to the Alameda County art community. The Arts Commission also works directly with organizations at the state level – including Californians for the Arts, California Arts Advocates, and CREATE CA – on several promotion projects throughout the year. These advocacy efforts focus on providing information and education about the importance of the arts; recognizing individuals and organizations involved in the arts; and partnering with arts defense organizations at the state, regional, and local levels. The Arts Commission encourages community members to recognize the role of fiber arts – as well as other forms of art – in their lives. To learn more about how to apply for grants or nominate someone for recognition in Alameda County's art community, contact the Arts Commission office through their message center at the bottom of their page.
