In the coming weeks, TCA will conduct a series of virtual meetings with our field to discuss the arts’ current needs resulting from the pandemic and subsequent economic downturn. Look for your meeting invitation soon!Resources for Moving Forward Safely and Legally
On September 17, Governor Abbott allowed some expansions for reopening that affect some arts organizations, including museums. Please refer to the guidelines provided by the Governor to determine the maximum actions you can take at this time.
The National Endowment for the Arts has produced a best practices tip sheet on reopening safely, and resources on making your virtual activities accessible to people with disabilities.
Data Collection: Making the Case for the Arts
An important resource in collecting and providing data on the significant impact that COVID-19 has had on the arts field is the set of surveys that Americans for the Arts continues to conduct. The information collected in these surveys helps make a stronger case for increased support of the arts.
TCA Grants & Staying in Touch
TCA is striving to provide continuity of service to help sustain our field. We are continuing to accept applications for upcoming deadlines and to provide guidance on how to plan grant activities within pandemic constraints. TCA staff members are still mostly working from home so if you need anything, please reach us via email.
Upcoming TCA Application Deadline and Updates
TCA has an upcoming application deadline. As always, the TCA staff is happy to discuss your goals and eligibility to determine which programs are right for you. You may also request that a TCA staff member review your application and provide feedback. Ideally, these requests would be made at least two weeks before the application deadline.
Arts Respond Performance Support
This program provides professional artist fees to Texas nonprofits, schools, colleges, and units of government for hiring an artist from the Texas Touring Roster to do a performance. These applications are funded based on a percentage of contracted fees. TCA has oriented the artists on the 2020-2022 Texas Touring Roster and is allowing presenters to hire them for live streaming interactive arts activities while social distancing is still in place. If you are hiring them for a planned in-person event, we encourage you and the artist to discuss a contingency plan in case that event cannot be held as anticipated, and to outline that plan in the performance contract. Please let us know if you have questions about the plan you are considering.
Activity dates must start: Between December 15, 2020 and March 14, 2021
Application deadline: Midnight on November 2, 2020
Application form: Online
Arts Create & Arts Respond Project Grants Update
Arts Create, Cultural District Project, and Arts Respond Project grant contracts for 2021 grants have been sent out by email and are due October 9.
— In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, TCA is encouraging grantees to email scans of the signed contracts to attach@arts.texas.gov rather than mailing original signed contracts.
— TCA also requires all grant recipients to contact their state representative and state senator to share news about their grant award and thank them for making these funds available. This is an opportunity to inform your elected officials about the work that you do in your community. You may use one letter to each legislator to acknowledge all of your TCA grants that were approved by TCA Commissioners in September. Please send TCA copies of these thank-you letters to attach@arts.texas.gov.
— If your organization is new to applying to TCA, you will also need to get set up to receive your grant funds via direct deposit.