Folk and Traditional Arts
Apprenticeship Grant

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What is it?

The purpose of the Folk and Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Grant is to honor traditional artists and encourage the continuation of Kentucky's living traditional arts by funding master artists to teach skills and practices vital to their cultural heritage to less experienced artists within their communities.

Who's eligible?

A master folk artist and an apprentice (age 16 or older) apply together. Applicant artists must be full-time residents of Kentucky for a period of one year immediately prior to the application deadline, and remain a resident of Kentucky for one year following award notification. A parent or legal guardian signature is required if the apprentice is younger than 18.

What are folk arts?

The arts council defines folk arts as artistic expression that is shared informally within a folk group, and is essential to that group’s cultural identity. Folk groups include family, regional, ethnic, occupational and recreational groups. Members of a folk group share aesthetics, insider knowledge, language and a similar worldview. Master artists and tradition-bearers are exemplary practitioners of a folk group’s art forms. Their “master” status is determined by other members of the group. Apprentices demonstrate a potential to become masters and commit to learning the art form thoroughly to represent the group’s culture. Examples of folk arts from previous apprenticeships include regional fiddle styles, basket making, ethnic dance, gospel music, etc.

What's the deadline to apply?

March 15, 2021, 11:59 p.m. Eastern time.

How do I apply?

1. Carefully review the grant guidelines.
2. Select work samples and supporting materials for submission.
3. Complete the GO Smart application.
4. Click the final submit button before the deadline.

If I receive a grant, what are my responsibilities?

• Sign a grant agreement form (GAF).
  
  
• Send a letter to each of your state legislators. (Sample)
  
  
• Acknowledge the Kentucky Arts Council when communicating with the public about the apprenticeship. (How?)
  
  
• Conduct the apprenticeship according to the work plan outlined in your application.
  
  
• Host a site visit by Arts Council staff near the midpoint of the apprenticeship.
  
  
• Submit a final report at the end of the fiscal year.

If I have questions, who can help me?

Mark Brown
Folk and Traditional Arts Director
mark.brown@ky.gov
502-892-3115
888-833-2787 (toll free)