VALLEY — Bonfils-Stanton Foundation, Colorado Creative Industries, and Hemera Foundation in partnership with RedLine Contemporary Art Center announced the first generation of grant recipients for the Arts in Society Program, which included the Rio Grande Farm Park. The initiative was launched in the fall of 2016 with the expressed mission to foster cross-sector work through the arts. From September 2016 to January 2017 a 13-member panel comprised of individuals across the state of Colorado and some national representation assembled to review over 265 grant applications.

Gary Steuer of the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation explained, “The Bonfils-Stanton Foundation is so excited to be partnering on this initiative with the Hemera Foundation and Colorado Creative Industries to support so many compelling projects in Denver, the region and around Colorado. This initiative responds to the growing desire of artists and arts organizations to use their creativity and talents to make a difference in their community. At the same time those engaged in issues like education, poverty, public safety and health increasingly are looking to the arts as a partner in their work. We embrace this opportunity to support this work in our community."

Grants awards were assessed based on the applicant’s ability to illustrate artistic excellence, broaden the understanding of the role arts play in society, demonstrate cross-sector work, exhibit cultural relevancy, foster community engagement, and present opportunities for shared learning. Specifically, grantees will join learning communities with other grantees from across the state at least two times a year to discuss best practices, challenges, and opportunities related to their projects.

Rio Grande Farm Park’s project “Creating Community Through the Arts at the Rio Grande Farm Park,” will encourage inclusive engagement and community at the Rio Grande Farm Park (RGFP) by installing artist-designed sitting places throughout the Park.