New England Master Apprenticeship Grant

NEFA's Native Arts program ran from 200 to 2014. Learn more on the Past Programs page.

Native American artists and organizations are encouraged to explore grant opportunities and services in other NEFA programs, and contact us with questions.

In 2013-14, Native Arts celebrates the outstanding artists and organizations supported to date with an  exhibition, companion publication, and related events for artists and the public.

The Master Apprenticeship supports mentoring relationships between master artists and apprentices. These grants of up to $5,000 will pair an experienced master artist with an apprentice for up to one year, establishing a  learning experience that helps to ensure the continued vitality of Native artists in New England.

Eligibility

Native American artist applicants must:

• Be Native American, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian.
• Reside in one of the six New England states.
• Be a master artist or an apprentice in the proposed project.
  (A master artist exemplifies artistic quality and craftsmanship in his/her medium, with ten or more documented years of experience making and teaching his/her art. An apprentice is an experienced artist currently working in a medium, looking to enhance his/her skills, and works by pairing and mentoring with a more experienced "master" artist.)
• Contact NEFA staff prior to applying.
• Complete the project within one year of receiving funding.
• Be able to fulfill the grantee requirements if funded.

Funding Criteria

This application process is competitive. Awards will be based on submission of a thorough application according to the following priorities:

• Both the master and apprentice demonstrate artistic skill, accomplishment, and experience in the proposed art form, medium, or media, shown through the submitted artist statement, resume, and work samples.
• Skill and commitment of the apprentice. (Does the apprentice have the skill to benefit from working with the master? Is the apprentice dedicated to continuing and disseminating the art form?)
• Appropriateness of match between master and apprentice. (Are the individuals well-matched for successful transference of the art form?)
• The proposed project addresses an identified need or benefit for the artist(s).
• Potential impact of the apprenticeship on the continued vitality of the tradition, art form, or contemporary work.
• Feasibility of work plan. (Does the plan provide sufficient and well thought-out interaction to achieve meaningful results?)
• The project aligns with the overall purpose of NEFA's Native Arts program - to support Native artists creating traditional and contemporary art.
• Commitment to preserving and encouraging art and artmaking in New England communities.

Deadlines

Deadlines are typically the first Monday in October and third Monday in March.

In 2013-14, the program is focusing on visibility for the outstanding individuals and organizations that have received grants to date; a comprehensive exhibition, catalog, and related events are the major activities. During this time, NEFA is not accepting new applications; however, potential applicants are encouraged to contact Native Arts program staff for project planning assistance, including referrals to other NEFA programs and outside sources.

Grant REQUESTs & Instructions

In 2013-14, the program is focusing on visibility for the outstanding individuals and organizations that have received grants to date; a comprehensive exhibition, catalog, and related events are the major activities. During this time, NEFA is not accepting new applications; however, potential applicants are encouraged to contact Native Arts program staff for project planning assistance, including referrals to other NEFA programs and outside sources.

How to Apply

1. Contact NEFA staff.
2. Complete the Native Arts New England application requirements with the following changes:
   1. Project Narrative: The application should describe the proposed apprenticeship and identify both the master and the apprentice artists.
   2. Supporting Materials: Submit supporting materials for both the master and the apprentice.

Requirements & Reports for Grant Recipients

Requirements
All Native Arts New England grantees are required to submit an evaluation within one month from the end of their project.

Click below to log in and begin your grantee report. You may save and return at any time.

 START YOUR GRANTEE REPORT   

Contact

Summer Confuorto (Gros Ventre/Mi’kmaq) | Program Coordinator
sconfuorto@nefa.org | 617.951.0010 x533