Summit Area Arts Gets $101K In State Grants

SUMMIT, NJ — More than $101,000 of grant money from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts has been given to Summit based Visual Arts Center of New Jersey and the Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre to help fund ongoing activities.

Visual Arts Center of New Jersey received $101, 342 in funds for "general operating support" and the Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre received $10,000 for "general operating support as well. Overall, the Council awarded $15.7 million in grants to 700 arts organizations across the state.

"It is an honor to lead a department that invests in the people of New Jersey in such diverse and meaningful ways," said Secretary of State Tahesha Way. "Grants through the State Arts Council have a direct positive impact on New Jersey residents, families and communities. The return on the investment is undeniable, and we are grateful to today's award winners for the important work they do."

The arts are an economic driver in the state: 3.8 percent of New Jersey's GDP comes from the arts. The Council receives funding from the State of New Jersey through the Hotel/Motel Occupancy Fee legislation passed in 2003, which established a dedicated revenue source to support arts, history, and tourism. Additionally, the Arts Council receives annual competitive grants from the National Endowment for the Arts.

According to their website, the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey has been recognized as a leading arts institution in the tristate region, serving over 30,000 individuals each year. Comprised of a studio school serving children, teens, and adults; a contemporary art museum; educational outreach programs serving K-12 schools; and art & healing programs in conjunction with health and social service organizations, the Art Center engages the community in visual learning, interpretive programs, and art-making experiences.

The Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre professional ensemble of actors builds community with our audience by sharing contemporary, life-affirming stories that challenge, energize and entertain, their website said.

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