Pandemic Creates Uncertainty For Creative Renewal Projects

COVID-19 paused many aspects of the arts and culture world, including fellowships and grants. Visual artist Mirvia Eckert was one of 40 local creatives to receive a Creative Renewal Grant from the Arts Council of Indianapolis. She hopes to use her $10,000 fellowship this summer for a trip to Puerto Rico to study her family’s heritage through dance.

WFYI’s Jill Ditmire spoke with Eckert about the status of her trip. Eckert joined the conversation by phone.

The Arts Council of Indianapolis responded to the closure of arts and entertainment venues with an impact study that helped create a relief fund for local creatives. The council is conducting another survey to learn what creatives will need in the next six to 12 months. That information will be used to create the next phase of funding.