DES MOINES – The Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs today announced it has awarded 119 grants totaling more than $1.2 million to organizations, people and projects in 40 communities that strengthen quality of life and cultural vitality in Iowa.

Local projects that are being supported include:

• Creston: $10,000 Art Project Grant: Arts will partner with Creston High School and artist Jordan Weber to design and paint a public mural in Creston.
• Elk Horn: $10,000 Art Project Grant: The Museum of Danish America will present The Whimsical World of Bjørn Wiinblad, an iconic Danish artist in the 20th century active throughout Europe and the United States.
• Greenfield: $2,500 Cultural Trust Stability Grant: Warren Cultural Center will receive funding to support the stability of the organization with a Part-Time Development Director.

“With these investments, we continue to partner with artists and organizations who are making our communities more culturally vibrant and attractive to people who want to live and work in our state,” Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs Director Mary Cownie said. “We congratulate our grant recipients and encourage all Iowans to experience and enjoy the arts in Iowa.”

In total, the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs awarded $1,271,257 in grant funding through its Iowa Arts Council division for art projects, artist fellowships, programs, operating support, and strategic planning/fundraising. Grant categories include the following:

• Art Project Grants
• Artist Fellowships
• Cultural Leadership Partner Art Project Grants
• Cultural Leadership Partner Operating Support Grants
• Cultural Trust Stability Grants

With today’s announcement, the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs continues to preserve and promote Iowa’s collective heritage and unique sense of place while investing in people and projects that cultivate creativity, foster economic growth and enhance the cultural identity of local communities. More information about the grant programs is available at www.iowaculture.gov.