CreateHere announced that three artists have been approved for ArtsMove's $15,000 artist relocation incentive during Phase III's first quarter.
After a competitive application process, a panel of seven local experts in the fields of arts and culture juried the applications and selected Dylan Kussman, Collin Monk and Denice Bizot. Mr. Kussman, an actor from Los Angeles, and Mr. Monk, a musician from Franklin, Tn., are now in the search for residential property within ArtsMove's five qualifying neighborhoods. Ms. Bizot, a visual artist from New Orleans, found a home outside ArtsMove's footprint.
As Chattanooga's artist/artisan relocation program, ArtsMove is offering a $15,000, five-year forgivable mortgage to full-time artists in all manner of creative enterprises. Recipients of the ArtsMove incentive will make a commitment to purchase residential property in a qualifying in-town neighborhood and contribute to the city's cultural tapestry and economic vitality.
Phases I and II of ArtsMove were successful, moving 23 artists into permanent residences, officials said. Lisa Cutler moved from Nebraska to Chattanooga during Phase I of ArtsMove, bringing her business designing purses with her. "With the encouragement and assistance of ArtsMove, my husband and I moved here and were able to purchase our first home in the Fort Negley neighborhood. We have experienced a very real sense of community and support among other artists. Moving to Chattanooga did more than change our location; it changed the whole direction of our lives."
ArtsMove is now accepting applications from full-time, professional artists and artisans for the second quarter deadline on April 25. Visit www.ArtsMove.org to download an application, or contact Sarah Lester at sarah@createhere.org or (423) 648-2195 for more information.
CreateHere is a collective of programs and projects, incentive funding and individuals working together for creative economic and cultural development in Chattanooga.